A Lamp on a Stand
Proverbs 3:27-34; Psalm 14; Luke 8:16-18 Luke 8:16-18
Luke 8:16–18 presents us with the parable of the lamp. In this parable, Christ exhorts his disciples to shine so that others may see (Luke 8:16). He was not encouraging hypocrisy; rather, he wants us to live in accordance with the illumination we have received from him.
Going further, He says, “Nothing is hidden that will not be disclosed, nor is anything secret that will not become known and come to light” (Luke 8:17). This apothegm shows that, in due time, God’s plan will be fully revealed and man’s hypocrisy will be exposed.
Jesus says, “Those who have, more will be given; and from those who do not have, even what they seem to have will be taken away” (Luke 8:18). This is a grave warning: those who are truly patient, humble, and hardworking will be given ever-increasing powers, while the pretenders and lazy ones will be punished for their negligence and laxity.
St. Padre Pio whose memorial we celebrate today gave expression to evangelical excellence. He was dedicated, detached and delivered the people of his time from the grip of satan and vices. Through his intercession we pray for a revival in our apostolate.
Let us pray
Father, have mercy, grant us your favour, and save us through your Son, Jesus Christ. By the power of the Holy Spirit, give us strength to continue to shine for the salvation of the world. Amen!
Fr. Daniel Evbotokhai
