Today we remember Timothy and Titus, faithful companions and co-workers of Paul. They were not apostles by title, but they became apostles by mission—sent, trusted, and formed to lead communities in times of challenge and uncertainty.
In the Gospel, Jesus gives us a simple but searching image: no one lights a lamp and then hides it. A lamp is meant to shine. Light exists to be shared. What good is light if it never leaves the room?
Timothy and Titus lived this truth. Timothy was young and at times timid, yet Paul urged him not to let anyone despise his youth, but to fan into flame the gift God had given him. Titus was practical and courageous, sent to difficult communities to bring order, healing, and unity. Neither man hid behind fear or inadequacy. They allowed the light of Christ to shine through their lives.
The question Jesus places before us today is deeply personal: Do you hide your light? Do you bury your talents?
Fear can make us hide—fear of failure, fear of criticism, fear of not being good enough. Comfort can dim our light. Routine can make us forget the gift we carry.
But the light we have is not ours alone. It is Christ’s light within us. Your kindness, your patience, your ability to teach, to serve, to listen, to lead—these are not meant to be hidden away. Someone’s darkness depends on your light.
The Church today does not need perfect people; it needs available people. Like Timothy and Titus, we are called to trust that God can work through our weakness. When we step forward in faith, even trembling faith, the lamp shines.
So let us ask for the courage of these saints:
the courage to stop hiding,
the courage to let our faith be visible,
the courage to place our gifts on the lampstand.
May we leave this place resolved to let Christ’s light shine through us—for the glory of God and for the life of the world. Amen.
Have a wonderful Week
