Commentary on the Gospel of September 22, 2025

Anointed to Be Light

Jesus is the Christ, the Anointed of the Lord, the one and only Savior of all humanity. He rescues us from sin and death and opens the way to God. But in the shadow of the one Christ, there are also other “anointed ones” who, through their institutional role or personal charism, also cooperate in the work of salvation. Sometimes these are “small salvations,” within the limits of this world, but still important, since they open horizons of hope, something we deeply need.

In Israel, priests, kings, and prophets were anointed—small christs—because of their mediating role. But there were also others, even outside the chosen people, who, as instruments of God, carried out saving actions in line with His will. For example, Cyrus, who was open and sensitive to Israel’s faith, became an instrument for a new exodus after the bitter experience of exile.

Jesus, the Christ and light of the world, pours out the oil of His anointing and His light on all who are open to God’s will. It is important to recognize that anointing and light wherever it appears, even—as with Cyrus—outside the boundaries of the People of God, the Church. But we who have received the light of faith and the anointing of baptism are especially called to be light, to bear witness to the salvation found in Christ. This is both a grace and a responsibility. Jesus insists that we must not hide the light of faith as if it were a private matter. We have received much; much is expected of us—lest we end up losing even what we think we have.

Fraternal greetings,