The “Glow” of Truth & Beauty
Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ,
The readings for this weekend refer to light and letting one’s light shine. “Your light must shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your heavenly Father” (Mt. 5:16). What is the “light” that the Gospel references?
I think the “light” that Jesus is referring to is the truth and beauty of God that Jesus reveals through His own life, actions and teachings. Those who embrace the “good news” announced by Jesus Christ – that “God so loved the world that He gave His only Son, so that everyone who believes in Him might not perish but might have eternal life” (Jn. 3:16) – becomes a conduit of divine truth and beauty. The truth of God’s love and the gift of the saving grace revealed in Jesus Christ is a “light” that casts out the darkness of sin, despair and fear.
Embracing the truth and beauty of God’s love for us, as well as His plan for salvation, lightens our load, gives us hope even in the midst of great trials and allows us to have an optimistic and joyful approach to daily life. Artists have often depicted those who have faith in Jesus, believe the truth he revealed and grow in heroic virtue by the Lord’s help (Saints) with halos around their heads. These holy ones “glow” in a sense and are letting their light shine.
The Gospel tells us not to keep this “light” hidden, because letting it shine benefits and blesses others. But the light that we exude is not mere worldly activities, successes or acquired skills. No, the light that Jesus is speaking of is the result of God’s action in our lives. It is the truth and beauty of God becoming evident in the way we live our lives; in the way we love.
I encourage you to never hide your love of God. Never shy away from sharing the joy and blessing you receive because of your faith in God’s love and mercy revealed in Jesus Christ. Sharing your own experiences of God at work in your life is a way of letting your light shine. Humbly and lovingly sharing your faith is powerful and brings light to the dark places of people’s lives.
Sincerely yours in Christ Jesus, the Way, the Truth and the Life,
