REFLECTIONS TODAY

After proclaiming the Beatitudes, Jesus tells his audience that they are “the salt of the earth” and “the light of the world” (vv 13, 14). This entails great responsibility and a big challenge for Jesus’ listeners not to remain as recipients of his teachings and miracles, but to be active participants in the mission entrusted to Jesus by the Father in heaven. To be “salt of the earth” is to give flavor to the community, just as salt gives flavor to food. It is to enhance the beauty, freshness, and order that are already existing in the community or may have been established by others. To be “light of the world” is to shine on others, especially in the dark, which may be symbolic of the darkness experienced by people. Jesus uses these images to challenge his followers to inspire others by their good works. This should not end in themselves; rather, by seeing their good works, people may glorify the Father in heaven who is the very source of flavor and light. When did I become salt that gives flavor to my family, workmates, and light that inspires them? Do my words and actions lead them to glorify the Father in heaven?

Gospel • Mt 5:13-16

Jesus said to his disciples: “You are the salt of the earth. But if salt loses its taste, with what can it be seasoned? It is no longer good for anything but to be thrown out and trampled underfoot. You are the light of the world. A city set on a mountain cannot be hidden. Nor do they light a lamp and then put it under a bushel basket; 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.” Source: “365 Days with the Lord 2023,” St. Paul’s, 7708 St. Paul Rd., SAV, Makati City (Phils.); Tel.: 632-895-9701; Fax 632-895-7328; E-mail: [[email protected]](mailto:[email protected]); Website: [http://www.stpauls.ph](http://www.stpauls.ph).