No one hides a lamp

Gospel

Mark 4:21-25

A lamp is to be put on a lampstand. The amount you measure out is the amount you will be given

Jesus said to the crowd, ‘Would you bring in a lamp to put it under a tub or under the bed? Surely you will put it on the lamp-stand? For there is nothing hidden but it must be disclosed, nothing kept secret except to be brought to light. If anyone has ears to hear, let him listen to this.’

He also said to them, ‘Take notice of what you are hearing. The amount you measure out is the amount you will be given – and more besides; for the man who has will be given more; from the man who has not, even what he has will be taken away.’

Reflection

Jesus uses the vivid image of a lamp to teach us about the purpose of faith and knowledge. A lamp exists to give light, not to be hidden away. Similarly, the truth and grace we receive from God are meant to be shared openly, not concealed. This passage challenges us to consider whether we're living our faith visibly or keeping it private out of fear or convenience.

The principle about measuring reminds us that generosity breeds abundance. How we give—whether attention, compassion, understanding, or mercy—determines what we receive in return. God's economy works differently from the world's: those who share freely find themselves enriched, while those who hoard discover even their possessions becoming meaningless.

Question for Reflection

In what areas of my life am I hiding my lamp "under a tub"—keeping my faith, talents, or compassion concealed rather than letting them shine for others? What fears or doubts hold me back from living more openly and generously?

Prayer

Gracious God, you have given me light not to hide but to share. Give me courage to let my faith shine openly in my daily life. Help me to be generous with the gifts you've entrusted to me—my time, attention, kindness, and love. Teach me to measure out mercy abundantly, trusting that in your hands, generosity multiplies. Remove whatever blocks the light within me, so that others may see your love reflected in my life. Amen.

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