TODAY’S WORD…

Jesus asked, “Would anyone light a lamp and then put it under a basket or under a bed? Of course not! A lamp is placed on a stand, where its light will shine.”

– Mark 4:21

REFLECTION…

“A lamp is placed on a stand, where its light will shine.” Here, Jesus is stressing the importance of proclaiming our faith, and how it should not be kept hidden. Jesus also tells us, “What I whisper in your ear, shout from the housetops for all to hear!” (Mt 10:27)

The way we live, and act, and speak, and love, and care for others – this is how we give effective witness and draw people to God. This is why Jesus teaches, “Let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father.” (Mt 5:16)

QUOTE…

“I see now that true charity consists in bearing with the faults of those about us, never being surprised at their weaknesses, but edified at the least sign of virtue.

I see above all that charity must not remain hidden in the bottom of our hearts: ‘nor do men light a lamp and put it under a bushel, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house.’ It seems to me that this lamp is the symbol of charity; it must shine out not only to cheer those we love best but all in the house.” – St. Therese of Lisieux

PRAYER…

Lord God,

Your Word is a lamp to my feet,

and a light for my path.

Lord I pray

that this fire You placed in my heart will never extinguish,

and that I will keep stoking it with Your Word.

Lord, I pray

that Your light will intensify in me,

so that I will never be able to keep it hidden.

Amen.