September 22, 2025 Monday of the Twenty-fifth Week in Ordinary Time
Daily Readings: Ezra 1:1-6; Luke 8:16-18
In 587 BCE, the Babylonians under King Nebuchadnezzar destroyed the Temple, the city, and the walls of Jerusalem, leading the people of Judah into exile. Nearly seventy years later, a remarkable turn of events took place. King Cyrus of Persia defeated Babylon and issued an edict permitting the exiles to return to Jerusalem, rebuild their lives, and restore the Temple and city walls. What is striking is Cyrus’s wisdom and kindness: though he did not know the God of Israel, the Lord stirred his heart to accomplish His will. Cyrus not only granted freedom but also urged his people to assist the exiles with silver, gold, goods, animals, and freewill offerings. The tribes of Judah and Benjamin responded eagerly, and their neighbors supported them generously. This story reminds us that God’s purposes are not limited by boundaries of faith or nation. He can bring about wonders and miracles through the most unexpected instruments, even foreign kings.
The Gospel offers us the parable of the lamp. A lamp is lit not to be hidden but to be placed on a stand so it can drive away darkness and guide those who enter. Luke emphasizes Jesus’ universal openness: “so that those who enter may see the light.” Unlike Matthew’s focus on the household, Luke portrays the light as shining outward, welcoming all people. Here, the lamp symbolizes the Word of God, radiant, attractive, and inclusive.
As disciples, we are called to reflect this light. The Word we receive must not remain hidden but must shine through our lives, drawing others toward God. Each of us, in our own way, can become a small spark, dispelling darkness, offering hope, and leading others to encounter the living God.
Call to Action: Through our words and actions, we are called to introduce Jesus to the world. That is our mission. Are we able to shine like little sparks of light?
Radio Veritas Asia (RVA), a media platform of the Catholic Church, aims to share Christ. RVA started in 1969 as a continental Catholic radio station to serve Asian countries in their respective local language, thus earning the tag “the Voice of Asian Christianity.” Responding to the emerging context, RVA embraced media platforms to connect with the global Asian audience via its 21 language websites and various social media platforms.
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