Gospel Reading for January 29, 2026 – Mark 4: 21-25
SELECTIVE LISTENING
Jesus said to his disciples, “Is a lamp brought in to be placed under a bushel basket or under a bed, and not to be placed on a lampstand? For there is nothing hidden except to be made visible; nothing is secret except to come to light. Anyone who has ears to hear ought to hear.” 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. To the one who has, more will be given; from the one who has not, even what he has will be taken away.”
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The Gospel today is a continuation of yesterday’s reading about the sower of the Word of God. The Word of God is a light that illuminates the darkness of this world—the darkness of sin. We are called not merely to hear, but to listen attentively, so that the Word does not simply enter one ear and leave through the other.
Some of us listen, but practice SELECTIVE LISTENING, choosing only the parts we like while ignoring the more challenging and important truths. Others listen, yet impose their own interpretations, often misinterpreting the Word of God to suit personal interests or convenience.
In this age of social media, we hear and see countless things online. Some create content without substance; others invent stories, twist the truth into lies, or make lies appear as truth. Because of this, it is essential to discern carefully whether what we hear and see is aligned with the Word of God.
Lord Jesus, through You, may we become bearers of the light that illuminates the world.
