The Light Of Christ Illuminates All Men

Reflection 17 from Matters of the Heart

“Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.” – Matthew 5:16

See Also:

Hippolytus, The Apostolic Tradition, 20

Prior to their baptism, catechumens in the early church had their lives carefully examined;

had they lived soberly?

had they honoured the widows?

had they visited the sick of their people?

In short, were they active in shining the light of Christ onto others and were they zealous members in the life of the church? If their life was wholly dedicated to the Lord their God, then they were brought into the baptismal font for their ‘illumination’. For their rebirth in baptism granted them illumination through the light of Christ. They came forth shining from the waters as a light guiding all men to God. You too are consecrated to bear that light and are entrusted to let your light shine before all men that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.

Prayer: