Memorial of Sts. Andrew Kim Tae-gŏn, Priest, & Paul Chŏng Ha-sang, & Companions, Martyrs
Have you ever noticed that if you wait long enough, even waiting through painful periods of “same-ole, same-ole,” suddenly a surprise happens? Notice the surprise in today’s reading from the Book of Ezra. Somehow the Prophet Jeremiah prevailed upon Cyrus the King of Persia to suddenly allow the Hebrew people to go back to their homeland and rebuild their temple. Even more surprising, he not only allowed them to return but even provided much-needed assistance.
The people were so shocked that the event was remembered as part of their cultural and religious heritage. It showed them how God could touch the basic goodness of anyone to become a source of mercy and blessings for the People of God.
Have you ever felt that you were part of God’s surprise for someone? Jesus is teaching us that a light is meant to be used and put on a lampstand for the benefit of everyone. Is it possible that our little light, however small and insignificant, might have seemed at the time was exactly what God intended to use to help someone move from darkness to light?
If you can remember a similar experience, you can smile because God probably used your little light to surprise someone. Someday, you’ll know!
Reflection: Can you surprise someone with your light today?
Reflection by Fr. Daniel Petsche, OSB
Posted in Articles for Ordinary Time, Daily Reflections