A Light can be lit only from another Flame

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season:  Fifth Week :  *Sunday*

*Gospel :  5:13-16* 

*First Reading : Is 58:7-10*

*Responsorial Psalm : 112: 4-9*

*Second Reading : 1 Cor 2:1-5*

*A Light can be lit only from another Flame*

*1) What Cannot Light a Lamp*

In life, we often try to shine using: Education, Power, Wealth, Morality alone, Social status, Religious activity without prayer

These may decorate the lamp, but they cannot ignite it.

A lamp may be: Beautiful, Costly, Well-shaped.

Yet without fire, it remains dark.

*What Truly Lights Us* : Only A living relationship with Jesus, Only His Word, Only His Spirit, Only His love flowing into us. Only Jesus can turn us into light.

Christianity is not about being good candles — it is about being lit candles.

*2) “You are the Light of the World”*

*The Significance of Jesus’ Message* : When Jesus says “You are the light of the world,” He is not flattering us.

Earlier, He already said: “I am the Light of the world” (Jn 8:12).

*This means* : We are not the source of light. We are receivers and reflectors of His light

*Just as*: A lamp cannot light itself, A lamp cannot be lit by water, wind, or good intentions

*So also*: A human heart cannot shine with truth, love, or holiness unless it is first lit by Christ.  Only Light can give light.

*3)  Application to Our Life*

*A) Before Enlightening Others, Be Enlightened*

We often want to: Correct others, Guide our children, Reform society, Teach morality

But Jesus reminds us: “Stay close to the flame before you try to light other lamps.”

*B) We Don’t Produce Light — We Reflect It*

The moon shines beautifully, but it has no light of its own. It reflects the sun.

So do we: When we forgive → His light shines. When we love the unlovable → His light shines. When we choose truth over convenience → His light shines

Humility is knowing: “This light is not mine — it is His.”

*C) Darkness Is Not Removed by Argument, but by Light*

Jesus never said: “Fight the darkness” “Condemn the darkness”

*He said: “Be light.”*

In families: Be patient light

In workplaces: Be honest light

In society: Be compassionate light

Light does not shout. Light simply exists — and darkness retreats.

*4) Points to Ponder*

A small lamp can brighten a large room — if it is lit

A silent candle preaches more than loud words

The closer we are to Christ, the brighter we shine

When we disconnect from the Source, we may still look religious — but we lose radiance

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*