Homily for Monday of the Twenty-fifth Week in Ordinary Time 

Theme: “Let Your Light Shine – Rebuilding with God.”



Introduction:
A young boy once tried to hide a torch under his blanket at night so he could read comic books secretly. His mother walked in, saw the light shining through the blanket, and said, “You may think you’re clever, but even Moses couldn’t hide that light!” Light has a way of revealing itself—it cannot be hidden for long.

The Word of God:

  • In the first reading (Ezra 1:1-6), God stirs the heart of a pagan king, Cyrus of Persia, to allow the exiles to return and rebuild the Temple. God shows that He can use anyone—even outsiders—to bring about His plan. The light of God’s providence shines in unexpected places.

  • Psalm 126 sings of joy when the Lord restores His people: “The Lord has done marvels for us.” This joy is not shallow happiness, but the deep gladness of those who see God’s faithfulness through hardship.

  • In the Gospel (Luke 8:16-18), Jesus teaches about light. God’s truth and love are not to be hidden away but shared. “To the one who has, more will be given.” In other words, those who live by the Word will shine even brighter, and those who neglect it risk losing even what little they have.

Connection of the Readings:
Both Ezra and Luke highlight God’s desire for openness: the rebuilding of the Temple is not a private matter but a public sign of His faithfulness; the lamp of faith is not to be hidden but shared. Together, they challenge us to let our lives shine so that others see God’s work through us.

Lessons for Daily Life:

  1. God works through unexpected people and events. Even in exile, He raised Cyrus to bless Israel. In our lives, God often uses surprising situations to rebuild us.

  2. Faith is meant to be visible. Like a lamp, it should shine in our families, workplaces, and communities.

  3. Rebuilding is communal. Israel rebuilt the Temple together. Likewise, in the Jubilee Year and Synod on Synodality, we are called to rebuild the Church together, each bringing our gifts.

Motivational / Inspirational:
Spring has begun here in South Africa. Just as blossoms break through winter’s chill, so too does God bring renewal after seasons of exile, hardship, or personal struggle. Our part is to let His light shine in us—through kindness, forgiveness, courage, and truth.

Quote of the Day:
“A candle loses nothing by lighting another candle.” — James Keller.

Final Thoughts:
Your life may be the only Bible someone else reads today. Don’t hide the light. Don’t doubt your worth. Be the lamp on the stand.

Message for the Oppressed:
To those feeling crushed by life—remember, God can even use kings and systems outside our control to bring us freedom and hope. The same God who stirred Cyrus can stir hearts on your behalf. Trust Him.

Conclusion & Prayer:
Let us pray—
“Lord Jesus, You are the light that no darkness can overcome. As You sent Israel home to rebuild, send me today to bring hope, peace, and light wherever I go. Give me courage not to hide my faith, but to live it boldly. May Your light in me brighten South Africa, my family, and my community. Amen.”

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