Tuesday, June 10, 2003
10th Week in Ordinary Time

1st Reading: 2 Cor 1:18-22
Gospel: Mt 5:13-16

Jesus said to his disciples, "You are the salt of the earth. But if salt has lost its strength, how can it be made salty again? It has become useless. It can only be thrown away and people will trample on it.

"You are the light of the world. A city built on a mountain cannot be hidden. No one lights a lamp and covers it; instead it is put on a lampstand, where it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way your light must shine before others, so that they may see the good you do and praise your Father in heaven."

Commentary

Salt must be so good we sprinkle on food with wanton generosity even against medical advice. And what should we say about light? A short power failure causes us untold consternation if not outright stress! When Jesus compares us to salt and light, he tells us how good we are and we cannot allow the world not to enjoy our goodness. The conduct of our lives must influence the world for good. Our deeds must make life a little less burdensome for others. Our words must comfort, encourage, and build up. Our thoughts must be selfless and kind. We must make a difference no matter how little, no matter how confined. Jesus expects it of us.

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