Be A Light In This Dark World

23 Sep

Jesus said to the crowd:
“No one who lights a lamp conceals it with a vessel
or sets it under a bed;
rather, he places it on a lampstand
so that those who enter may see the light.”  (Lk 8:16)

Sometimes, Jesus’ stories sound so corny, don’t they?

After all, we all know that unless a grain of wheat is planted, it cannot grow.  We know that if weeds are sown with wheat, they will choke the yield.  We all know that people light lamps and place them on stands.

We know that.

But, we do not always internalize that.

God has given us many gifts and these gifts are a type of light for the world.

However, if we do not use the gifts that God has given to us, we are, effectively, placing them under a basket so that no one may benefit from them.

No one, including ourselves.

For, if we do not use our gifts for the good of others, we do not benefit from the gift as well.  It will stagnate within us until we end up losing the gift.

The first day of fall was yesterday.  As people came to Mass, especially at the 6:30 a.m. Mass, they commented upon the fact that it was still somewhat dark.  We are losing the light.  It is getting darker sooner each evening and gets lighter later each morning.  People are already missing the light.

Do not let the world go dark because you refuse to put your light up for others to see.

Shine brightly this day!

FAITH ACTION:  As you reflect in prayer today, ask yourself what gifts God has given to you.  Ask yourself if you are using your gifts to the best of your ability.  What gift will you use today for the benefit of others?