If you have ever been in a blackout, you know how important light is. We stumble and grope about if we don’t have light. As we get older, we notice it gets harder and harder to see if there is not enough light. Light is vital to our daily wellbeing. In Jesus’ day light was even more important since while there were lamps and candles there was no electric lights. Jesus reflects on the importance of light in today’s Gospel. First, he starts with the proper use of light:
“No one who lights a lamp conceals it with a vessel or sets it under a bed; rather, he places it on a lamp stand so that those who enter may see the light.”
We do not hide a light, we let it shine. What is this light that Jesus is talking about? It is his message and his ministry. It is Jesus himself: “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” (John 8:12). Jesus’ words and teaching are a light to guide us in our daily life. This light shines as Jesus teaches us that the true God is a God of love, a God who is rich in mercy. Jesus does not conceal his message but proclaims it for all to hear that they may truly see themselves and the world as God sees his creation. We can only see this vision when God opens and illumines our eyes. It is only when we truly hear Jesus’ message that we can truly see as God sees. Jesus exhorts us: “Take care, then, how you hear.”
Jesus is the light of the world but you and I are invited to reflect God’s light in our daily life. At the beginning of his Sermon on the Mount Jesus calls us to be his disciples and not to hide our light but to let it shine.
“You are the light of the world. A city set on a mountain cannot be hidden. Nor do they light a lamp and then put it under a bushel basket; it is set on a lampstand, where it gives light to all in the house. Just so, your light must shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your heavenly Father.” (Matthew 5:14-16)
Our light is our good deeds, the way we imitate God’s way of mercy and compassion. When our light truly shines, we draw people to the one truly God. Like Jesus you and I are called to draw people to God the Father: “Just so, your light must shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Heavenly Father.”
Image: “Oil lamp @ Nazareth Village_0696” by hoyasmeg is licensed under CC BY 2.0.