Monday of week 25 in Ordinary Time

Ezra 1:1-6
Psalm 125(126)
Luke 8:16-18

PENETRATE DARKNESS WITH THE LIGHT OF CHRIST

Architecture and the environment wield a powerful influence over society! Imagine medieval times, where the church stood as the heart of the village—its spires reaching for the heavens, surrounded by vibrant landscaping and filled with fresh flowers. People were drawn to this central beacon because their lives revolved around their faith. Fast forward to today, and it seems like banking, luxury retail, and boutique hotels have stolen that spotlight.

But here’s the exhilarating part! Today’s readings explode with a profound message. The temple that the returning exiles will reconstruct in Jerusalem is celebrated as the “light of the world,” shining brightly atop a mountaintop to illuminate everything around it. Just like in the Gospel, where the lamp is boldly placed on a stand instead of hidden away, we are called to radiate our light and brighten the lives of others!

The light we bring to our wounded world is a precious gift! It’s in the little acts that create ripples of change—a warm smile at the grocery store or checking in on a receptionist’s ailing mother. Let’s ignite the darkness with the brilliant Light of Christ at the center of our lives! And perhaps tomorrow, I’ll dive into a fulfilling task like cleaning the church, making it shine even brighter!

Fr Joseph Osho