Reflection for the Fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time, 2026

Isaiah 58:7-20; Psalm 112; 1 Corinthians 2:1-5; Matthew 5:13-16

Light shall rise for you in the darkness

On a stormy night, as a hurricane howled outside our sturdy brick convent, we were blessed to be safely inside.  We had already finished a light supper and each Sister was making her way to our chapel for Night Prayer where we would continue to pray for everyone’s safety. The overhead lights flickered, then blinked once again.  Suddenly, the convent was plunged into darkness, each Sister alone in her own little area. How we longed for light in those tense moments!

Today the theme of light is a common thread running through the Mass readings as well as the psalm.  Isaiah prophesies that the blessings of light will reward the practice of the corporal works of mercy, our sharing of earthly goods. Jesus also connects light with good works in the Gospel: “Your light must shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your heavenly Father.”

Isaiah continues his encouraging message to us. He tells us that God gives us not only light as a reward, but His own presence as well: “You shall cry for help, and He will say, ‘Here I am’”.  Human beings are social, in need of companionship, so God’s message is very comforting. Saint Teresa of Calcutta has said that loneliness is the poverty of our Western world. We know that through our service to others and our presence, we can bring light and warmth to them.

During the hurricane blackout, one Sister had lit her little lantern and escorted the rest of us, one by one, to locate ours as well. Her light showed us the way.  During the storm we shared the light and comfort to which we were led by one bright lantern.   Have you experienced life’s storms in which you became a small light for another, offering confidence or the courage to take the next step when the way forward seemed so dark to them?

As the Word of God reminds us today, lightening the load of others produces light in their darkness.  Where this week might we be called to lighten another’s load—and in doing so, illuminate the shadows they face?

Dear Friends, your notes and calls enlighten us as you share your prayer intentions. As we lift up your petitions to God, we hope to be lights for you as well.

You are the light of the world.