“You are the light of the world.”
Matthew Chapter 5 Verse 14
Today’s scripture reminds me of the beautiful Gospel hymn that has inspired children and even mass movements: “This little light of mine… I’m gonna let it shine.” For those of us with faith, nothing dims the light of Christ. Our lives are dedicated to sharing our joy with one another and the world.
Jesus tells his disciples—which includes all of us who followed in baptism—that we are the light of the word, his messengers of salvation. To deliver that message, each of us is called for a purpose—a mission all our own. By shining our light for all to see, we are answering God’s unique call for us. When you think about it, God needs us to fulfill Christ’s mission of salvation. That’s how important each of us is. We are called to proclaim the gift of salvation in Christ and share it in ways that only each of us can.
When we shine our light for one another and the world, we are being everything Christ asked us to be: healers… teachers… counselors… peacemakers… and people who make a habit of practicing mercy and forgiveness.
Friend, shine your light, however God is calling you, and be fulfilled because your good deeds are the example of faith that will glorify our heavenly Father.
Sincerely yours in Christ,
Father Raymond J. Finch, M.M.
Prayer for 5th Sunday in Ordinary Time
Your word, O Lord, is a lamp for my feet,
Your gospel, a light to the world.
Through the Holy Spirit
let the radiance of Your truth,
Your love, and Your mercy
shine forth through my every
word and deed.
Confident Your light still shines
in the darkness, Lord,
and the darkness has not
overcome it, may I never
hesitate in showing kindness,
gentleness, and compassion
to everyone I meet, but especially
those most in need of Your mercy.
It is better to light a candle
than curse the darkness.
Accept my life, Lord, as a candle
dedicated to You,
consecrated to Your service
and sacrificed for Your glory.
Amen.
Prayer by Maryknoll Missioner, Father Joseph Veneroso
