FIFTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME A
DISSOLVE INTO SERVICE
Matthew 5:13-16
MESSAGE
The Lord Jesus calls us, along with all disciples throughout the ages, salt and light. Salt is essential for seasoning and preserving, yet once it fulfills its purpose, it disappears into whatever it flavors. Light enables us to see and dispels darkness, but once it has served its function, our attention shifts from the light itself to what it reveals.
Jesus teaches that our mission is to be the salt of the earth and the light of the world. These elements do not draw attention to themselves; instead, they point beyond. St. Paul, the great apostle to the nations, understood his mission as proclaiming Christ Crucified, the original and authentic salt and light. In serving Christ, Paul willingly fades into the background.
We are called not only to proclaim Christ Crucified, but also to discover Him in those around us. Amid the chaos of today’s world, Christ is present in those who suffer from poverty, oppression, illness, loneliness, and injustice. When we recognize Jesus in them and serve them, our own saltiness and light may go unnoticed, yet we fulfill the Lord’s challenge to us.
REFLECT
Today, the world is in great need of Jesus. Many around us are hurting, in pain, needy, or poor. Can you be salt or light for them? Do you see Christ Crucified in the suffering of those around you? May we be inspired to serve our brothers and sisters, pointing not to ourselves, but to the love of God within our hearts.
