No one who lights a lamp conceals it with a vessel or sets it under a bed; rather, he places it on a lamp stand 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."
The Covering of Reticence: Many human beings are right at heart, sound in faith, well fitted by their knowledge and intelligence to render essential service; but they are also reserved, so self-contained, so inalienable, lives so much in the inner circle of their non familiar friends, that they are far less forcible and influential than they are capable of being; they are hiding the light of their character under the covering of reserve, instead of setting it on the candlestick of open-heartedness and expressiveness.
The Covering of Resentfulness: Other people are warm-hearted, good natured diligent and devoted in every good work, capable of rendering admirable service; but they are quick- tempered, irascible, ready to take offence; so hasty and resentful that they are shunned when they would otherwise be approached; they hide the light of their character under the vessel of ill temper.
The Covering of self-assertion: Some people are upright, honourable, zealous, resolute, forcible, well fitted to effect great things, but they hide their light, under the bushel of self-assertion; they insist on everything being done in the way they prefer; they make co-operation impossible; they cut their influence in twain by their want of concession.
The Covering of Discourtesy: There are those who are honest and even earnest and hardworking Christians, acting along the lines of holy usefulness; but they cover their character with the vessel of bluntness or ignorance or positive rudeness, instead of putting the light of piety and zeal on the candlestick of courtesy.
As in the case of the parable of talents, those who hide their lighted lamps under the vessel will be deprived of their light forever. People who make the best use of their opportunities will always grow higher and God will continue to bless these persons with many more gifts and opportunities.
As Christians we are called to be the light of the world. We are expected to give witness to others by our exemplary life. We cannot have our Christian identity hidden and if we keep hiding it for a long time, we cease to be Christians (even what we have will be taken from us)
Courtesy
The Pulpit Commentary
Sacra Pagina Series
The Pulpit Commentary
Sacra Pagina Series
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