The parable of the lamp

JESUS said to the crowd: “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. For there is nothing hidden that will not become visible, and nothing secret that will not be known and come to light. 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

NO ONE WHO LIGHTS A LAMP CONCEALS IT. Jesus states the obvious; no one begs to disagree. What can be argued about is its application. Jesus refers the light to His word that is supposed to be shared, not privatized. His word should be communicated, yet it may be subject to interpretations. Discussions heat up when we put different meanings to His word.

The listener of the word of God, therefore, must be dialogical when he wants to share. He must speak in such a way that he does not invite controversies. The missionary must speak the language of his audience. The sharer must be sensitive to his listeners. That is the way to shine.

We who reflect and study the word of God must speak in such a way that it can be understood by our listeners. A sign that they understand is when they are able to appreciate our explanation and are encouraged to live by it. If, after they hear us, they feel more confused or wonder what we have been saying, then we have failed to shine.

Let us spread the good news of Jesus taking into account the language and culture of our people.