Rouse and visible

Hebrews 10:19-25; Psalm 24 Lord, this the people that longs to see your face; Mark 4:21-25

There are two words that stand out in today's readings. 

In the first reading, the Letter to the Hebrews, the writer exhorts us to confidence in faith due to the blood of Jesus poured out for us.  Then, we are exhorted to "rouse one another to love and good works."

Let us "rouse" one another.  The writer is telling us that letting people slumber in their life is not an option.  We must "rouse" them.  There are many ways to rouse people.  We can startle them awake or we can gently nudge them to be awaken to the beauty of the day.

Each method doesn't work for everyone or every time. 

No one likes to be startled awake, yet there might be moments when it is needed.  

If the house is on fire, then a gentle nudge is inadequate.

We must discern the method for each person at each time.

Secondly in the gospel Jesus speaks of the lamp and the lamp stand.  He tells us there is "nothing hidden except to be made visible."

In deed we are meant to be visible that is we are meant to be seen.  In fact all that we do is visible and seen.  The question is, "is what is visible a true light for the world of the higher things?"

We must rouse and be visible lest what we have be taken away.  The best way to rouse someone is by simply turning on the light.  The light itself as a way of rousing and keeping awake.  We must simply be visible and the light will do the rest.