A sermon on Matthew 4:12-23

By Fr. Mike Paraniuk
HCP columnist

What does John mean when he writes in the Bible, “This is the message which we have heard from Him and declare to you, that God is light and in Him is no darkness at all?" (1 John 1:5.) 

John 8:5 says, “Then Jesus spoke to them again, saying, ‘I am the light of the world. He who follows Me shall not walk in darkness, but have the light of life.'” (John 8:5.)

The Greek word for "light" in the Bible is "phos" which means, "to reveal." What does phos reveal? Phos reveals that God's Kingdom is here now in our world. That is why Jesus went about proclaiming “Repent, for the kingdom of Heaven is at hand.” (Matthew 4:17.)

Jesus is the Light that reveals not only the Kingdom of God, but the values that God considers most important in His Kingdom. Here they are:

1) LOVE. This is the value God considers most important. Jesus taught that to love God and neighbor with your heart, mind and soul is the greatest commandment (Matthew 22:37-39.)

2) JUSTICE. God wants everyone to be treated fairly, especially to protect the rights of the most vulnerable who cannot protect themselves. This is one reason why the Roman Catholic Church opposes abortion of babies.

3) FORGIVENESS. God says you must forgive others as He has forgiven you. You cannot enter God's Kingdom unless you forgive.

4) HUMILITY and COMPASSION: God says we should show compassion by putting the needs of others above our own. You must alleviate human suffering wherever you find it (Matthew 20: 26-28.)

5) INTEGRITY: Mean what you say, say what you mean, and live what you believe. Be sure to put "Christ" in "Christian." 

6) SERVICE: Use your God-given gifts and talents to light up the downtrodden and broken hearted who live in darkness.

These are the "Kingdom Values" of God. You are called to be "light bearers" of those values to enlighten a dark world. "Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.” (Matthew 5:16.) God's Light reveals not only who He is but who we are and what we must do.

Years ago I ministered to a mother who was giving one of her kidneys to her child. Her kidney was a perfect match for her little daughter. I remember what she said to me. "I love her so much I would gladly give what ever she needs. I will do whatever it takes to protect her. I will give her a future where she can live, love and make happy memories. This is what I will do because this is what a mother does. Right now, my little girl is all I care about."

A famous boxer once said, "Service to others is the rent you pay for your room here on earth." You are a light-bearer of the Kingdom. Shine brightly. Don't let anything dampen your sparkle. (Don't forget to pay the rent.) 

Blessings...Fr. Mike.