The Gospel for the Third Sunday in Ordinary Time presents the beginning of Jesus’ public ministry. After the arrest of John the Baptist, Jesus withdraws to Galilee and settles in Capernaum, a place described by the prophet Isaiah as a land of darkness. It is precisely there, in an ordinary and often forgotten region, that the light of Christ begins to shine.

“The people who sat in darkness have seen a great light.”
These words remind us that God often chooses unexpected places and people to begin something new. Galilee was not the religious center of Israel. Yet, Jesus starts His mission there. This tells us that no place and no person is outside God’s saving plan. Even in moments of uncertainty, suffering, or moral confusion, God’s light can break through.

The heart of Jesus’ message is clear and simple: “Repent, for the Kingdom of heaven is at hand.”
Repentance does not mean only feeling sorry for sins. It means a change of mind and heart, a turning back to God. It is an invitation to live differently—to choose honesty over deceit, compassion over indifference, and faith over fear. For example, repentance may mean forgiving someone who has hurt us, or choosing justice and kindness in our daily work and relationships.

In the longer Gospel reading (Matthew 4:12–23), we also see Jesus calling His first disciples. Fishermen leave their nets immediately to follow Him. This shows that the Kingdom of God is not only an idea or a promise; it is a call to action. Jesus invites ordinary people to share in His mission of bringing hope, healing, and truth to the world.

This Sunday’s Gospel encourages us to ask ourselves: Where do I need God’s light today?
Perhaps in a difficult decision, a wounded relationship, or a moment of discouragement. Jesus continues to walk along the shores of our lives, calling us to follow Him more closely.

May this Word renew our hearts, strengthen our faith, and help us live as people who have truly seen the light of Christ.