The Gospel says, "You are the light of the world." Yes, we should all let our light shine! The Gospel also says, "No one after lighting a lamp puts it under a bushel basket, but on a lamp stand, and it gives light to all in the house." (Mt. 5:25)
The question is: What is your lamp stand?
We have a natural inclination to shine our lights by using our talents and doing our various jobs well. If we are a fifth grade teacher, we think, "I am going to let the light of Christ shine as I teach." If we are a cantor at Mass, we think, "I am going to sing for Jesus." We often think about leaving our homes, and shining the light of Christ in public.
But note that the Gospel says, "It gives light to all in the house." Perhaps the metaphor is appropriate for moms to take literally. Those in our house should see the light! The lamp stand should be first and foremost in our homes!
It is a holy endeavor to pray for each person in our home, think about them, and ask God, "What are they most needing right now?" Maybe one daughter needs some one-on-one time with you. Maybe one son needs you to help him organize his room. Maybe your children need you to refresh family prayer time, make it slower paced, more focused and enriched. Maybe one of your children is net yet engaged in a personal relationship with Jesus, and needs to hear you explain how you found Jesus and keep your relationship with him alive. Maybe your family needs a home-cooked meal, enjoyed all together over a leisurely evening. Maybe your family needs more rest.
Attentiveness to the details of each person in our family is a chance to BE CHRIST to them. If we slow down, forget everything else, and just be the presence of Christ for them, that is one powerful way to let our lights shine. We shine the saving light of Christ through our love.
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