MARK 04:21–25
PARABLE OF THE LAMP
Text – Mark 4:21–25
21 He said to them, “Is a lamp brought in to be placed under a bushel basket or under a bed, and not to be placed on a lampstand?
22 For there is nothing hidden except to be made visible; nothing is secret except to come to light.
23 Anyone who has ears to hear ought to hear.”
24 He also told them, “Take care what you hear. The measure with which you measure will be measured out to you, and still more will be given to you.
25 To the one who has, more will be given; from the one who has not, even what he has will be taken away.”
Historical and Jewish Context
In the ancient Jewish household, a small clay lamp was the primary source of light. It was placed on a stand or a high shelf so that its light could fill the room. Jesus’ question—whether a lamp should be hidden under a basket or a bed—would have sounded absurd to His listeners. The lamp’s purpose was to illuminate. In Jewish tradition, light symbolized truth, wisdom, and divine revelation (Psalm 119:105). Jesus used this familiar image to explain that the truths of the Kingdom are meant to be made known, not concealed. Verse 22 echoes prophetic teaching: what God reveals in secret to His disciples must later shine forth to the world. The call to “hear” (verse 23) repeats a central theme in Mark—true discipleship means active listening and faithful response.
Catholic Theological Perspective
In Catholic theology, the lamp represents both the Word of God and the light of faith that Christ gives to His disciples. As the true Light of the world (John 8:12), Jesus illuminates the darkness of sin and ignorance. His followers, enlightened by the Gospel, are called to reflect that light through word and deed (Matthew 5:14–16). The warning against hiding the lamp teaches that faith cannot remain private; it must radiate through witness, charity, and truth.
Verse 24 introduces the principle of spiritual reciprocity: those who receive God’s Word with openness and generosity will receive even greater understanding and grace. The “measure” reflects the standard of one’s response—our generosity toward God determines how abundantly He pours back His blessings. Verse 25 affirms that spiritual growth depends on faithfulness; grace multiplies in those who use it well but diminishes in those who neglect it. This reflects the Catholic teaching on cooperation with grace—divine gifts are freely given, yet they require human response and stewardship.
Parallels in Scripture
Psalm 119:105 – “Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light for my path.”
Matthew 5:14–16 – “You are the light of the world.”
Luke 8:16–18 – Parallel teaching about the lamp and the measure.
John 8:12 – Jesus declares Himself the Light of the world.
2 Corinthians 4:6 – “God… has shone in our hearts to bring to light the knowledge of the glory of God.”
Key Terms
Lamp: Symbol of divine truth and faith.
Bushel basket/bed: Symbols of concealment or negligence in living out faith.
Measure: The degree of openness and generosity in responding to grace.
Light: Revelation and presence of God manifested in truth and goodness.
Catholic Liturgical Significance
This Gospel is read during Ordinary Time to remind the faithful of their mission to be the light of Christ in the world. In the liturgy, the lamp symbolizes both Christ and His Word shining in the midst of the Church. During the Easter Vigil, the Paschal Candle embodies this mystery—Christ the Light spreading to all who receive Him. The reading also encourages self-examination: how do I share the light of faith received in baptism?
Conclusion
The Parable of the Lamp teaches that faith must be active and visible. The truth of the Gospel is not meant to be hidden but shared. Those who listen deeply and act faithfully will grow ever more radiant in the light of grace, while indifference leads to spiritual loss. God’s light is meant to transform the world through the witness of His people.
Reflection
Do I allow the light of Christ to shine through my life, or do I hide it through fear or indifference? The Lord calls me to be a lampstand—radiating His truth, mercy, and love wherever I am.
Prayer
Lord Jesus, You are the Light of the world. Remove the shadows of fear and indifference from my heart. Help me to live my faith boldly and joyfully, reflecting Your light in every thought, word, and action. Grant that others may see Your love through me and be drawn into Your truth. Amen.