First Reading: Book of Ezra (Ezra 1:1–6).
Responsorial Psalm (Psalm 126): R. The Lord has done marvels for us.
Alleluia
Alleluia, alleluia.
Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your heavenly Father.
Alleluia, alleluia.
Gospel Reading: (Luke 8:16–18).
Reflection
Today’s readings invite us to reflect on the way God restores and renews His people. In the first reading, King Cyrus, though not an Israelite, responds to God’s prompting by allowing the exiles to return and rebuild the Temple. This shows us that God can use anyone, even those outside of Israel, to accomplish His saving work. His plan is greater than human boundaries, and His mercy opens the way for renewal after exile and despair.
The psalm highlights this theme of restoration: God transforms sorrow into joy, tears into laughter, exile into homecoming. When God intervenes, life is changed radically.
In the Gospel, Jesus uses the image of light to challenge us. Faith cannot be hidden. God’s word, once heard, demands a response, action that becomes a light for others. To live in faith is to reflect Christ’s light openly, not concealing it out of fear or indifference. If we nurture the word of God within us, we receive even greater graces. But if we ignore or neglect it, we risk losing the blessings we have already been given.
The readings together remind us that God restores His people and calls us to be instruments of His light. Just as the exiles were moved to rebuild the Temple, we too are called to build up God’s kingdom, not in stone, but in our daily actions of justice, mercy, and witness.
May we pray for open hearts, that God’s word may shine through us, guiding others to His truth and love.
Be light and have a wonderful day.
Pal Ronnie
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