Fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time

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.

It isn’t easy being a light for the world. It can be tempting to hide our faith in order to avoid conflicts with our family, friends, and neighbors. We might do so because we don’t feel good enough or knowledgeable enough to present ourselves as Christians. We might not feel confident enough to proclaim the Good News or be willing enough to take that leap of faith that is required to become witnesses to the faith. However, if we want to be found worthy of heaven and share in the promise of eternal life, then we need to put aside our fears, doubts, and anxieties and bear the light of Christ into the world. If we want our families, friend, and neighbors to grow in holiness, then we need to burn with the light of love and mercy. It is through our good words and works that others come to see the goodness of our Heavenly Father and glorify Him.

How are we a light of God’s Love and Mercy for our families and friends? How are we a beacon of truth for our neighbors and the whole world? What can we do to enkindle, sustain, and grow the fires of our faith and the faith of others?

O Lord, may the lights of our lives shine before others and lead them to you.

Amen.