Today's Gospel in Art - No one lights a lamp to cover it with a bowl

Linen Lamp Shades Rue du Mail, Paris 2014 © Club Masters of Linen / Paris Deco Off

Source: Christian Art

Gospel of 20th September 2021 - Luke 8:16-18

Jesus said to the crowds:

'No one lights a lamp to cover it with a bowl or to put it under a bed. No, he puts it on a lamp-stand so that people may see the light when they come in. For nothing is hidden but it will be made clear, nothing secret but it will be known and brought to light. So take care how you hear; for anyone who has will be given more; from anyone who has not, even what he thinks he has will be taken away.'

Reflection on the Street Installation

In 2014, the Rue du Mail in Paris was decorated with these beautiful lampshades. Each unique lamp was there shedding its light, illuminating the street below and functioning as a giant archway. The artwork was commissioned by the Club Masters of Linen, a European organisation promoting certified European linen companies.

We are all unique lamps too. We produce different light. We radiate our faith each in a unique way. We witness to God's glory in a myriad of ways. Jesus says that we received the light when we had the Word of God revealed to us, and when we have realised its implications. It is then up to each of us to pass on that same light and help spread the Good News.

Our readings these past few days about the Parable of the Sower are directly linked to today's reading. The light of our lamps is parallel to receiving the seed on fertile soil. Seed that hasn't been truly planted in rich soil won't produce any fruit. A lamp that hasn't been truly lit can't shed any light, either.

Hearing the Word comes with responsibility: we can decide how we hear it and what we do with it. The hearer is responsible for how he or she hears...

LINKS

Today's story - https://christian.art/en/daily-gospel-reading/935
Christian Art - www.christian.art/