“Give Glory to God”
In today’s Gospel Jesus continues his Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5:1-7:28). This Sermon begins with the Beatitudes (Matthew 5:3-12) whereby Jesus teaches us what it means to be his disciple: it means to be “poor in spirit”, that is, to be humble, merciful, and peacemakers. Today Jesus teaches us that His disciples are salt and light: “You are the salt of the earth…You are the light of the world.” Our light is a “reflected” light since Jesus himself is the true light:
“I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” (John 8:12).
We receive the light of Christ at our baptism. The celebrant takes the Easter candle and says to parents: “Receive the light of Christ. This light is entrusted to you to be kept burning brightly. This child of yours has been enlightened by Christ.”
Through our baptism we have received the light of Christ and are called to reflect Jesus’ light by following His way of humility, mercy, and peace. These are the “good deeds” that define who we are as followers and disciples of Jesus. Like Jesus’ light, our light should not draw attention to ourselves but to God:
“Just so, your light must shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your heavenly Father.” (Matthew 5:16).
Today, let us let our light shine through deeds of kindness, compassion, mercy, and forgiveness. Is my light shining? Are people giving glory and praise to God?