Matthew 5:13-16 NRSVue
13“You are the salt of the earth, but if salt has lost its taste, how can its saltiness be restored? It is no longer good for anything but is thrown out and trampled under foot.
14“You are the light of the world. A city built on a hill cannot be hid. 15People do not light a lamp and put it under the bushel basket; rather, they put it on the lampstand, and it gives light to all in the house. 16In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven.
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Some thoughts on this scripture
Reflection
Jesus uses contrasting metaphors for Christian life, and they apply at
different times in each person’s life and in the church’s life. Sometimes
we are put in the spotlight, and we have our fifteen minutes of fame: briefly
we are the light of the world, and we can pray that when we are in such
focus, we may be worthy of our Christian vocation. Most of the time we are
more like salt, or leaven, working for good even when unseen. Salt is a less
attractive image than light. If there is anything of the exhibitionist in us,
this image will discover it.
Reflection
Lord, what do you ask of me, to be light or salt, to shine in public, or to
work invisibly? Make me easy in the role you assign me.
Reflection
Each of us is a light for the world because we are enlightened by Jesus, the
light of the world. The light within us is not our own, but is a reflection
of his light, the light of God. Prayer exposes us to the light, and when we
move from the space of prayer into the space of ordinary life, we are more
enlightened, in mind and heart. God is light, in him there is no darkness. We
are light, though not all is light. The touch of God brings light to more and
more of our inner, hidden personality.
Reflection
Goodness shines through and cannot be hidden. The goodness of Jesus came
through even in the darkness of the passion, and attracted good people to
him. God's gifts to each person are to build up the community and thus
glorify God. Anything done in love is done for the glory of God, for selfless
love and the glory of God go together.
Reflection
Jesus reminds me that faith is not a wet blanket on the joys of life but
brings zest and spark. I ask Jesus to touch my imagination to show me how my
faith can bring colour and life to me and to those around me.
Reflection
The salt under foot is wasted; the light under the tub puts itself out. I
consider how I might better use my energies for the good of others and for
the glory of God.