John of Damascus

Today the church remembers John of Damascus (676-749), a Syrian polymath who served under a Muslim caliph.

John of Damascus from Wikimedia Commons

I also wanted to point out that tonight is the fourth night of Hanukkah, so the four candles should be lit (well, technically five).  This is an interesting evening - halfway between darkness and light.

John of Damascus was also associated with writings about the Assumption of Mary and the defense of iconography.

As you wait in Advent, think, meditate, study.  And read 2 Maccabees.