A reading from the gospel according to Luke 8:16-18

Jesus said to the crowd:
16 “No one who lights a lamp conceals it with a vessel or sets it under a bed;
rather, he places it on a lampstand so that those who enter may see the light.
17 For there is nothing hidden that will not become visible, and nothing secret that will not be known and come to light.
18 Take care, then, how you hear. To anyone who has, more will be given, and from the one who has not, even what he seems to have will be taken away.”

Reflection: Light

Good News: To anyone who has, more will be given.

The gospel reading above follows immediately the Parable of the Sower and its explanation. Therefore, we must understand the above passage in the light of receiving the Word of God. Just like a lamp that is lit in the house, it must be seen outside or at least by someone who enters it. When we listen to the gospel, it must be not be concealed but instead, it must show itself in our life. We cannot hear the Word of the Lord and keep it secretly. It must be made visible in our words, actions, and behavior.

Nothing is indeed secret to God. He sees everything. He knows whether we are serious in following Him or not. He is not unaware of our little weaknesses and wickedness. By constantly listening to His words, we too become aware of our own shortcomings and if we truly seek His guidance, we will be transformed. For His words are alive and more powerful than a double-edge sword (Hebrews 4:12). It can give light to the darkest corners of our heart.

Jesus invites us to take care then how we hear. We must hear His words and make it fruitful in our life. We must apply it in our everyday activities. In this way, we grow in faith. But if we listen and forget about it, neglect it or waste it, the enemy will happily take away whatever little faith we have.