Daily Catholic Lectio
Thu, 31 October 2024
Thursday of the XXX Week of the Year
Diwali, Festival of Light
Isaiah 9:1-2. Ephesians 5:8-14. John 9:1-17
Christ, the light
Today, we gather to reflect on the profound theme of Christ as the Light, a message beautifully woven through the scriptures we heard today.
In Isaiah 9:1-2, the prophet speaks of a time when darkness will be dispelled, a promise of hope for the people who walk in darkness. “The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who lived in a land of deep darkness, on them light has shined.” This verse resonates deeply with our human experience. Darkness often represents despair, confusion, and sin. Yet, Isaiah reminds us that God does not abandon us in our darkness. He sends forth His light, a beacon of hope and salvation, embodied in the person of Jesus Christ.
In Ephesians 5:8-14, St. Paul urges us to “live as children of light.” Here, we are called not just to receive the light but to actively embody it in our daily lives. The Apostle reminds us that light produces goodness, righteousness, and truth. As followers of Christ, we are invited to reflect His light to others, illuminating the path of faith in a world often overshadowed by darkness. Our actions, words, and thoughts should shine brightly, guiding others toward the truth of the Gospel.
The Gospel of John 9:1-17 presents a powerful narrative of Jesus healing a man born blind. This miracle is not just a physical restoration of sight but a profound revelation of spiritual insight. Jesus declares, “I am the light of the world,” emphasizing His role as the divine illuminator of our lives. The blind man’s journey from darkness to light symbolizes our own spiritual awakening. When we encounter Christ, we are called to move from blindness—whether to our sin, our neighbour’s needs, or the beauty of God’s creation—into a vibrant awareness of His presence and purpose.
As we reflect on these passages, we must ask ourselves: How are we responding to the light of Christ in our lives? Are we allowing His light to dispel our personal darkness? Are we living as children of light, sharing that light with those around us?
Three life lessons for us:
1. Embrace transformation. Just as the blind man in John 9 experienced physical and spiritual healing, we are called to embrace the transformative power of Christ in our own lives. Acknowledge areas of darkness or struggle, and invite Christ to bring healing and renewal. Change may be uncomfortable, but it opens us to a fuller life in Him.
2. Be a source of light. As children of light, we are called to reflect Christ’s light in the world. This means actively demonstrating love, kindness, and compassion in our interactions with others. Even small acts of kindness can make a significant difference. Remember that your actions can guide others toward hope and faith.
3. Seek and share truth. The light of Christ reveals truth and fosters understanding. We are encouraged to seek truth in our own lives and to share it with others. This involves being honest with ourselves and others, confronting our fears, and speaking up against injustice. By living in the light, we can help dispel ignorance and foster a community rooted in love and truth.
These lessons remind us that as we walk in the light of Christ, we not only transform our own lives but also become instruments of His grace in the world.
Happy feast of lights!
Fr. Yesu Karunanidhi
Archdiocese of Madurai
Missionary of Mercy
Yesu Karunanidhi 
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