First reading 2 Corinthians 1:18-22
God himself has anointed us and given us his Spirit
Responsorial Psalm 118(119):129-133,135
Let your face shine on your servant.
Let your face shine on your servant.
Let your face shine on your servant.
Let your face shine on your servant.
Gospel Matthew 5:13-16
Your light must shine in the sight of men
Salt and light
“You are the salt of the earth… You are the light of the world” (The Gospel). Jesus uses these two familiar images, salt and light, from everyday life to remind us of our purpose here on earth. In Jesus’ time, salt was used as a food preservative, primarily for meat and seafood. Thus, Jesus calls us to be salt in our workplaces, parishes, families, neighbourhoods, and friendships by embodying the values of the Kingdom: mercy, peace, justice, simplicity and goodness. When we lose our saltiness, meaning we become influenced by the world’s values and ways, we diminish our influence because we start to speak and act like the world.
We are called to be light by living in a way that shines God’s love in every aspect of life through our words and actions, thus illuminating the darkness of selfishness, pride and hatred that often surrounds us. Today, Jesus invites us once more to be in communion with Him, allowing Him to give us the strength and guidance to be His salt and light.
Reflective question:
What does it mean to be the salt and light of Jesus in my life today?
Acknowledgment: Reflections are based on “Prayer for Living: The Word of God for Daily Prayer Year C” by Sr Maria Jose FMVD.