The word “Lent” actually literally means Springtime, the perfect season for renewal! Here’s Sister Mary’s mid-week pick-me-up for the “mini-retreat” that will refresh your soul throughout Lent. Here’s a list of all of the weeks’s posts.

By Sister Mary Core, OSB

Such confidence Jesus has in us, as he proclaims:  “You are the light of the world.” (Matthew 5: 14-16)

I‘ve been repeating that phrase every day this Holy Week, and on Wednesday, as I was thinking of entering into the Triduum (the 3 days of Holy Thursday, Good Friday and Holy Saturday), I sensed God saying:

Of course you are the light of the world. Not the only light. Maybe not the brightest or the dimmest. But you are the light I want you to be. You are the light, because of what Jesus is doing for you in the next 3 days.

On Holy Thursday, Jesus, as servant, washes the feet of his disciples and hosts a meal.  On Good Friday, Jesus, as sacrificial lamb, carries the cross upon which he will give his life for us.

And then, on Holy Saturday, as glorified Son of God, he rises to new life in fulfillment of God’s promise to us.

Can you imagine a more profound example of letting your light shine than by caring for and feeding friends? Of sacrificing your selfish desires for the good of others? Of resurrecting Hope?

Jesus lets his light shine as an example for me, for you, for all of humanity. Through his passion, death and resurrection, Jesus models being light for the world.

We are called to let our light shine in the everyday services, kindnesses, sufferings, sacrifices, and merciful acts we do. Then that light which we share will lead us and others to the glory of God.

So, as the song says, “This little light of mine, I’m gonna let it shine.”  Let yours do the same!!

Questions for Reflection …

What are ways in which you have let your light shine?
What do you do when you feel your light is about to go out?
Can you imagine Jesus hearing the Father say, “You are the light of the world. Let your light shine?”   Maybe in that very dark moment in the Garden of Gethsemane?
As you journey through the Triduum, try to think of Jesus as that beacon of light that guides us to our Creator God.