October 23

Harvest of Light, Gladness

Light shines on the righteous, gladness on the upright in heart. — Ps 97:11 BSB

Righteousness often costs us something, especially when we hold to it in difficult times, but it will eventually repay us far more than we can imagine. Living a holy life is like planting seeds—it may feel like we’re giving things up, burying them in the soil, never to be seen again. We may mistakenly expect an immediate harvest, but God tells us that even light is "sown." It may lie hidden for a time, but it’s sure to sprout eventually.

We have complete confidence that the Lord has set aside a harvest for those who sow righteousness, and each will reap what they’ve planted. Then comes the joy—the harvest of gladness. There will be sheaves of joy for every seed of righteousness sown. Those whose hearts were right before God, though unappreciated or even criticized by others, will see the fruits of their labor. Like farmers who wait patiently for their crops, we too must wait for the harvest of righteousness. The light was sown for them, and the Lord of the harvest is preparing gladness for their reward.

Take heart, brothers and sisters! There’s no need to rush. Let us patiently endure, for soon our souls will reap a harvest of light and joy.