Monday of the Twenty-fifth Week of Ordinary Time
Today’s reading from the Gospel of St. Luke relates the parable of the lamp (Lk8:16-18). This is part of the section of Luke’s Gospel that deals with the theme of how we hear and respond to the Word of God; it is preceded by the parable of the sower and followed by Jesus’ explanation of who truly are members of his family—those who hear the word of God and act on it. Jesus tells us, “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” (Lk8:16). Our 'yes' to God’s invitation to enter life with God, Son, and Holy Spirit is meant to benefit the entire world. When we respond to the Word as God intends, we are very much like a lamp—attracting people and radiating light, warmth to all those around us. And light sheds itself indiscriminately—as does the light of God's Grace.
Personal transformation happens by consenting to the work of the Holy Spirit through God's Word. This allows our lives to reflect, in the most deeply authentic way, who God truly is and what being a disciple of Christ entails. This day let us say 'yes' to God. Let us allow God to open a space in our hearts and minds through which the workings of God's Word may come to light. And may God's grace be showered upon everyone we encounter. Amen.
--Gail Lyman