The two readings from today's liturgy present the mission that each person has as a unique purpose in life. Stated simply: we should live our lives in such a a way that what we become is a beacon of light that shines on the God-man, Jesus Christ Our lives should be the light that leads other to Jesus.
WHen completed, our lives should be known by others as an encouragement that helped deepen their faith. In the Screwtape Letters, C.S. Lewis points to this challenge: "(do) great parts without pride and small parts without shame."
The ministry of John, the baptizing relative of Jesus, presented the same thought to his followers: "He must increase; I must decrease."
Easter Sunday is much later in the year 2011 than usual. The expanse of time between now and then provides more time for us to work with our individual spiritual life. The focus on Christ and then on the Easter season can distract us from what can be a true challenge: Know Thyself! Perhaps this is what Ordinary time is meant to accomplish in us.
