Today’s Gospel:  Luke 8:16-18

REFLECTION
In today’s Gospel, the word “lucknon” translated “candle” really means “lamp,” and this referred to the shallow saucer-like piece of pottery in common use throughout Palestine during the time of Jesus. A wick lay in the oil, and this when lighted gave off a small light. Thus it could have safely been left lighted beneath any vessel. Beds for the most part were actually down on the floor where most of the poor people slept. There were however small beds or frames upon which beds were placed which stood on legs some four or five inches high. A divan was often used. This was made of wood and covered with oriental cushions among which people reclined during the day. So small a flame would not have been any cause of danger had it been placed beneath the divan. The illustration was perfectly understandable to Christ’s listeners. The Lord had just lit the light of truth; it was not for His disciples to hide this, but rather to use it, guard it, and by all means possible, to walk in its radiance. Thus He urged them to listen carefully, for otherwise, His message would have been spoken in vain; their carelessness would be tantamount to placing the lamp under a vessel. Whoever gives a welcome to the word and appropriates it becomes worthy and capable of receiving more. But by not appropriating truth when we recognize it, we lose hold of it, and have less power of recognizing it in the future.

Today’s Reading:  Proverbs 3:27-34

PRAYER
Lord, we are the mirror on which your light is reflected.  May we reflect your light brightly and broadly.  In Jesus’ Name we pray.  Amen.