When I discovered the joy of the Gospel, I planned to keep it to myself for I was afraid to be judged by others. I grew up with peers who thought being a bad boy made you cool. I am embarrassed to admit that I once tried my best to appear cool by acting like a bad boy before my entry to the seminary. My family did not mind because they expected me to get married anyway and continue to support them in their financial needs.

Against all odds, I applied, and was accepted, in the seminary because I could not help but share the good news with others. I cannot be fully happy if I continue to keep what I know to be true only to myself. God the Father expressed His love by sending His only begotten Son. Jesus enfleshed this love in his words and deeds. The Father and the Son continue to express this love for us by sending the Holy Spirit. I do not think that God created us because He needs us. Is it not because love is meant to be expressed and shared? The Holy Trinity is proof that love is meant to be shared, because we cannot keep it for ourselves.

This Gospel renews my motivation to continue with my seminary formation because I am not only doing this for my fulfillment and happiness but also for others. Jesus demonstrated to me that His Being is the greatest gift He can give to others. He is willing to give not only what He has but also everything He is. The Eucharist reminds me of that. I continue to respond to this Gospel challenge to put the light on a lampstand so that many may see the light. That light is none other than Jesus. Every Christian could be one of those lampstands that serve as an instrument for Jesus to shine.

By: Sem. Jose A. Cordova Jr.

Today’s Gospel

Luke 8:16-18

Jesus said to the crowd:
“No one who lights a lamp conceals it with a vessel
or sets it under a bed;
rather, he places it on a lampstand
so that those who enter may see the light.
For there is nothing hidden that will not become visible,
and nothing secret that will not be known and come to light.
Take care, then, how you hear.
To anyone who has, more will be given,
and from the one who has not,
even what he seems to have will be taken away.”