Let Your Light Shine: Reflections on Mark 4:21-25

In today's Gospel, Jesus asks us a simple yet profound question: "Does one light a lamp to put it under a bushel basket or under a bed?"

The answer seems obvious. Of course not. A lamp is meant to illuminate, to guide, to bring warmth and clarity to dark spaces. Yet Jesus asks this question because He knows our tendency to hide our light—to conceal our gifts, our faith, and our truth from the world.

The Purpose of Light

Jesus reminds us that lamps belong on lampstands, not hidden away. This metaphor speaks to the very purpose of our existence as Christians. We are called to be light in the darkness, to shine forth the truth and love we've received.

When we hide our talents, our convictions, or our faith out of fear or comfort, we defeat the very purpose for which we were created. The light within us—the grace, the wisdom, the love of God—is not meant for us alone. It's meant to illuminate the path for others.

Nothing Hidden Will Remain Secret

Jesus goes on to say that nothing hidden will remain concealed, and nothing secret will fail to come to light. This isn't a threat, but rather a promise and a call to authenticity.

We live in a world that often encourages us to present carefully curated versions of ourselves, to hide our struggles and our authentic faith behind masks of perfection or indifference. But Jesus calls us to transparency, to honesty, to living in the light rather than in shadows.

The Measure We Use

Perhaps most challenging is Jesus's teaching about measurement: "The measure you use to treat others will be used to treat you."

This is both a warning and an invitation to mercy. If we judge harshly, we will be judged harshly. If we show compassion, we will receive compassion. The generosity we extend to others returns to us multiplied.

Living in the Light Today

As we reflect on this Gospel, we might ask ourselves:

• What am I hiding under the bushel? What gifts, talents, or aspects of my faith am I keeping to myself out of fear or false humility?
• Am I living authentically, or am I presenting a version of myself that doesn't align with who God created me to be?
• How am I measuring others? Am I extending the same grace and mercy I hope to receive?

The call is clear: step into the light. Let your lamp shine from its proper place. Be generous in your measure. Live authentically before God and others.

For in doing so, we fulfill our purpose and participate in the divine work of bringing light to a world that desperately needs it.

"For there is nothing hidden except to be made visible; nothing is secret except to come to light." - Mark 4:22