You are the Light of the World

This weekend we will continue to hear from Jesus' Sermon on the Mount with the theme of being a witness to God's goodness! We hear Jesus say that famous phrase, "You are the light of the world." He then continues by saying that no one lights a light just to hide it away. And just so, we are meant to shine forth God's goodness and love to everyone we meet!

The first reading, from the Prophet Isaiah, echoes this by saying: "Share your bread with the hungry, shelter the oppressed and the homeless; clothe the naked when you see them, and do not turn your back on your own. Then your light shall break forth like the dawn." If we say "I am a Christian" and then do nothing about it, if we receive the light through Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist and then go about our live as if it never happened, then we are missing the point! We are failing to be the light!

In the second reading St. Paul also speaks about his own experience of being the light. However, he speaks in much humbler terms, saying: "I came to you in weakness and fear and much trembling, and my message and my proclamation were not with persuasive words of wisdom..." He goes on to say that the power of God worked through him, even in his weakness, and maybe even more so, "so that your faith might rest not on human wisdom but on the power of God." He was the light, even in his failures and weakness.

Sometimes we may feel like we're not equipped to be "the light of the world." We think we are too weak, not wise enough, that we don't know enough about God or the teachings of the Church. Yet, Jesus didn't say "your knowledge of the bible is the light of the world" or "your persuasive words are the light of the world" but "YOU!"

So, let us pray this week that we may grow in trust and courage! Jesus has told us that we are the light of the world and that we are to shine forth! That looks different for each person, maybe through persuading people of the value of faith with words, inspiring people through actions of love and service, or simply by being gentle and loving in our own homes with our children or spouses. In every moment there are opportunities to be the light of the world. This week, may we see those opportunities... and make the most of them!

Want to prepare your heart and mind for Mass this weekend? Click here to find the readings this Sunday's Mass.