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First Reading: Is 58:7-10
Second Reading: 1 Cor 2:1-5
Gospel: Mt 5:13-16
The Romans had a proverb: “Nothing is more useful than sun and salt (Nil utilius sole et sale).” Very ordinary, but very useful. Jesus uses the same metaphors of salt and light in the Bible to describe the role of His followers in the world. He states it as a fact that if you are a Christian, you are influential and make a difference, just like salt and light. He doesn’t say, “Try to become the salt of the earth or the light of the world,” or “you ought to be.” He says, “You are the salt of the earth and the light of the world.”
On Sunday mornings at Lumen Christi Church in Churchill, Tim greets visitors with a cheerful "Awesome!" in response to the common question, "How are you?" Tim had an accident in his youth, but his sister chose to take care of him instead of turning off his life support. Now, as a severely disabled middle-aged man, Tim's positive demeanour serves as an inspiration and an example of being a shining light in the world, as Jesus desires for his followers. Despite the challenges he faces, such as taking 2-3 hours to prepare and walk all the way to church each week, Tim is always present every Sunday to bring joy to those around him.
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It's true, many of us doubt that we can make a difference in the world. We see ourselves as ordinary and do not believe that we have the power to be change-agents. However, Jesus chose the metaphors of salt and light for a reason. These two seemingly ordinary things are incredibly powerful and make a profound impact on our daily lives.
Just like salt, we may feel like a small and simple ingredient, but we play a crucial role in enhancing the flavour of the world and preserving what is good and right. Similarly, the torchlight on our phones may not seem like much, but it provides illumination and guidance in the dark. In the same way, our small acts of kindness and faith can make a huge impact on the lives of those around us.
It's easy to underestimate the power of our actions, but when we live without salt and light for a while, we quickly realize the extraordinary difference they make. The same is true for our impact as Christians. When we live out our faith in small ways, like sharing a word of encouragement with someone who is struggling or volunteering at a local charity, we are making a difference in the world.
The world we live is badly in need of flavour and light, as too many live monotonous lives in the shadows. We are called to make a difference and bring flavour to others' lives. How are we acting as salt, adding taste to someone's life? And where are we shining our light to dispel the darkness? Let us have confidence in our role as change-agents and be faithful to our faith, knowing that our influence can make a profound difference in the world. Our ordinary lives can be powerful instruments of change when they are grounded in the love and grace of Jesus. We already have what we need so, embrace your role as salt and light in the world with joy and confidence, and live the lives that we are blessed with.