5th Sunday of the Year A 2026

Fortunately, the Light of Jesus continues to shine. It is not a spotlight dazzling us from a distance. It is a living light that warms, guides and quietly changes the world from the inside out.

The prophet Isaiah describes this light as one that loosens the chains of injustice, it shares food with the hungry, welcomes the homeless and clothes the naked. Living this way, allows “(Jesus) light to break forth like the dawn.” The light of Jesus shines whenever love becomes action. Love is not just a feeling; it is more like sleeves rolled up and doors opened wide.

The Psalm says that “even in darkness light dawns for the upright.” This is not because life is easy, but because a generous and steady heart carries light within it. A person who trusts in the Lord does not crumble because of bad news. Their light inspires calm courage, it is fairness in business, kindness in speech and generosity without fuss. Some people shine brightly in public while others glow faithfully in quiet corners. Both are light.

Paul believes this light is not dependent on clever words or impressive skill. Paul openly claimed he came “in weakness and fear”, so that faith might rest on God’s power. The light of Jesus often shines most clearly through ordinary people who know they need God. A gentle nurse; a tired parent; a teenager standing up for someone being bullied. The power is not in perfection, but in love.

In Matthew, Jesus makes it very clear that “You are the light of the world… and asks you “to let your light shine.” Don’t hide it. Don’t shrink from it. Don’t compare it with others. A lamp is meant to be seen. Salt is meant to flavour. Each of us has a gift – listening, teaching, building, comforting, organising, creating, praying, forgiving. When we use any of our gifts in love, the light spreads.

During recent climate catastrophes a small village had its electricity was cut off. The whole village was plunged into darkness. Then one elderly woman lit a single candle and then placed it in her window. A child across the road saw it and lit a candle too. Then another neighbour did the same. Soon the whole street flickered with small flames. No one candle lit the village on its own, it couldn’t. But together, they were able to push the darkness back. This is how the Light of Jesus works. It grows and multiplies.

You may not be feeling bright. You may even be feeling small, tired and unsure. But, if you share your bread lovingly, speak truth gently, forgive bravely, give generously and trust steadily – your light will rise like the dawn. The world need not only more voices of love prayer and praise it also needs much more light.

And Jesus is very, very clear that you already carry this light. So LET IT SHINE!!

By Fr. Thomas O'Brien a.a.