Daily Reflection Memorial of Saint Pius of Pietrelcina, Priest

Today’s gospel passage gives us a mixed metaphor of sight and hearing. Jesus speaks of a lamp with an obvious point. It makes no sense to cover a lamp and conceal the light. The purpose of light is to shine. Then he speaks of how we hear.

This passage follows the parable of the sower. Remember how a farmer scattered seed throughout his field. Some of it fell on a pathway, some on rocky ground, some fell among thorn bushes, and some fell on good soil. Jesus’ listeners may have thought this farmer to be wasteful – indeed a “prodigal” sower. However, Jesus demonstrates that the Word of God is meant for everyone, rather than for an elite, or gnostic, group.

For Jesus, hearing the Word of God alone is not enough; it must take root in us. The first three types of soil illustrate distractions which prevent the seed from flourishing. To be clear, we must take what we hear to heart and allow the Word to take root within us.

When you give a gift to a friend, you expect to hear “thank you.” But a better sign of gratitude comes when your friend puts the gift to good use. Then you know the gift has been appreciated. The Word of God is a gift. When we put that word to good use, others may benefit and we will better appreciate the meaning and power of the good news.

So, take care of what you hear and then let your light shine.