God created us to be the light of His world
Reflections on the readings for the Fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time (February 9, 2020): IS 58:7-10; PS 112:4-5,6-7,8-9; 1 COR 2:1-5; MT 5:13-16
MISSIO offers “Preaching Mission,” as a homily help, providing connections to mission from the readings of Sundays, Feast Days and Holy Days.
The New Testament readings for today speak about what it means to live a Christian life.
In writing to the members of the early Church in Corinth that he had helped establish, St. Paul says he came only to share Jesus Crucified with them. He did not come to show off his own skill in preaching or his personal wisdom. He wanted them to understand that their faith – all true faith – depends on the power of God given to them through the Holy Spirit. Everyone who follows the Son of God must keep Him as the center of all they are and do.
Next, in the Gospel, we hear Jesus talk to us just as He did His disciples who gathered around Him, telling them how important they are to the whole world. First, He lets them know that they are the salt of the earth. Even now, we still use salt to season food, but at that time, salt was also essential to actually preserve food for longer use. Jesus also insisted that all of them were the light of the world, like a lamp that is put to use. “It is set on a lampstand, where it gives light to all in the house. Just so, your light must shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your heavenly Father” (Matthew 5:15-16). Salt and light must be used to fulfill their purpose. If salt is thrown away or light is hidden, it is worthless. Every Christian has the opportunity to contribute to others by allowing the Holy Spirit to work through us and cooperating with His grace. Then we are able to do good and change the world. Then we honor God and share His message of mercy wherever we are.
