💖 HOMILY - JANUARY 6 💖

First Reading - 1 John 3:22-4:6

Gospel - Matthew 4:12-17,23-25

We all know the feeling of being in the dark — uncertain, afraid, or confused. But the moment light breaks through, everything changes. Light reveals the way forward, it brings clarity, and most importantly, it gives us hope. Today’s readings remind us that Christ is the light that breaks into our darkness, calling us to live in that light and reflect it in the world around us.

In the Gospel, we hear how Jesus begins His public ministry by stepping into a land overshadowed by darkness. The people of Galilee were burdened by suffering and uncertainty, much like many of us today. And what does Jesus do? He brings light. His very presence is a sign of hope. His message — "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand" — is a call to turn away from darkness and walk toward the light of God’s truth and love.

But living in God’s light requires more than just hearing His message. St. John, in the First Reading, reminds us that we must remain rooted in God’s commandments and learn to discern between what comes from God and what comes from the world. The world offers many lights that promise happiness and success, but they are often fleeting and false. Only God’s light brings lasting peace and joy.

Discerning God’s light begins with faith in Jesus Christ and love for one another. It is through this love that we reflect God’s light in a world that often feels dark and divided. Jesus didn’t just preach about the light — He became a light for others through His actions. He healed the sick, comforted the suffering, and welcomed the outcast. His life shows us that living in God’s light means bringing hope and healing to those around us.

We are called to do the same. In our families, communities, and workplaces, we can reflect God’s light through small acts of kindness, compassion, and forgiveness. When we choose to respond to hatred with love, despair with hope, and selfishness with generosity, we become bearers of the light that Christ brought into the world.

But we must also be aware of the voices that pull us away from that light. St. John reminds us to test the spirits — to discern what is true and what is false. Not every voice we hear is from God. We must ask ourselves, “Does this bring me closer to God’s light, or does it pull me into darkness?” The Holy Spirit within us gives us the wisdom to make that distinction.

Dear friends, as we reflect on today’s readings, let us ask ourselves: Are we living in God’s light? Are we bringing that light to others through our words and actions? Or are we still lingering in the shadows, following the false lights of the world?

Jesus’ call is clear — to turn toward the light of God’s kingdom and reflect that light in the world. May we have the courage to step out of darkness, live in God’s light, and become beacons of hope and love to all those we encounter. For when we live in God’s light, we help illuminate the path for others, bringing them closer to Christ, the true Light of the world.