Blazing Torches

Jesus came to his native place and taught the people in their synagogue. They were astonished and said, “Where did this man get such wisdom and mighty deeds? Is he not the carpenter’s son? Is not his mother named Mary and his brothers James, Joseph, Simon, and Judas? Are not his sisters all with us? Where did this man get all this?” And they took offense at him. But Jesus said to them, “A prophet is not without honor except in his native place and in his own house.” And he did not work many mighty deeds there because of their lack of faith. (Matthew 13:54-58)

There are times when we feel we are not appreciated and understood by those who are near and dear to us.   We feel taken for granted, sometimes forgotten, perhaps not even honored like Jesus in his native place and in his own house.  Or, perhaps we have different points of view that clash with families and friends – such as political views.  They take offense at us.

Those who tell the truth and hold mirrors up to those who lie, mislead, or are simply mistaken are prophets trying to make those with closed eyes open them wide to see what is clearly before them.  Jesus was like that.  He recognized darkness in hearts and minds.  We should as well especially since we are men and women of faith and are to be guided by that Catholic faith.

It is better to light a single candle than to curse the darkness.   However, there are times we must curse the darkness, that is, recognize it – the evil that lurks therein – then light that candle to expose it.  Actually, one candle will not suffice.   We all need to carry blazing torches.

Deacon David Pierce