Lamp on the lampstand, Life on Lifestand

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season:  Twenty Fifth Week : Monday*

*Gospel : Luke 8:16-18*

*First Reading : Ez 1:1-6*

*Responsorial Psalm : Ps 126:1b-2ab, 2cd-3, 4-5, 6*

*Lamp on the lampstand, Life on Lifestand*

*1) Life Stand*

Lifestand: A Symbolic Concept

A lifestand is not a physical object like a lampstand, but rather a spiritual metaphor for the place, role, or position where God places your life to shine His light to others.

It could be your Calling or Vocation

It could be your Your Relationships and Roles

It could be Your Trials and Suffering

It could be Your Testimony or Story

It could be Your Spiritual Gifts and Influence

*2) Your Life Is a Lamp — Not for Hiding*

Your life is not meant to be hidden in fear, shame, or spiritual passivity. 

When God saves you, He doesn’t tuck you away — He raises you up. 

The "lifestand" is wherever God calls you to live visibly for His glory.

Am I living in a way that reveals Christ, or conceals Him?

What "baskets" or fears might I be hiding under?

*3) The Lampstand Elevates the Light — The Lifestand Elevates the Purpose*

“So that those who enter may see the light.”

— Luke 8:16

A lampstand doesn't create light — it simply positions it where it can be seen.

Likewise, the "lifestand" represents the platform or position God gives you — not for personal glory, but for kingdom impact.

God wants to use your job, your voice, your influence, your suffering, even your personality — as a “stand” for His light.

Use your position (however big or small) to reflect God's love.

Don’t downplay your place. God puts you where your light is needed most.

*4) Life on the Lifestand Requires Boldness and Vulnerability*

Placing your life on the "lifestand" means you're willing to be seen — to be a witness, even when it’s uncomfortable. 

Light on a stand is exposed — and so is a life lived for God. It may cost you popularity, comfort, or privacy.

But it also gives clarity to those in darkness.

*Challenge*: Step up when God calls — even if it’s inconvenient or risky.

Let people see your faith, not just hear about it.

*5) God Builds the Lifestand — You Just Stand On It*

You don’t have to build your own platform. God is the one who places the lamp on the stand. 

He opens doors, makes appointments, arranges opportunities. 

Your job isn’t to promote yourself — it’s to be ready when He lifts you up.

Be faithful in the small things — God notices.

When He elevates you, stay humble and bright.

*6)The Lifestand May Look Like a Cross*

Sometimes, God places us on a "lifestand" that looks more like suffering than success. 

In those moments, your faithfulness in difficulty becomes the most powerful light of all. 

The cross was Jesus’ “lifestand” — and it brought salvation to the world.

*Encouragement*: Even in pain, your life can shine.

The darker the place, the brighter the witness.

*Think about it*

*God bless you and your family. Praying for you and your dear ones*

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*