Working with the Word

Focusing the Gospel 

Key words and phrases:   salt, trampled, light, hidden, good deeds

To the point:  This Gospel uses two metaphors with both positive and negative import. Salt enhances but is thrown away and trampled if it becomes tasteless. Light shines but is ineffective if it is hidden. Jesus is clearly saying that disciples must spend themselves in preserving and carrying forward his saving mission. Disciples must season the world with God’s word and faithfully shine forth God’s Presence. The choice is ours: to season or be discarded, to shine or be hidden.

Connecting the Gospel …

… to the Second Reading:  The First Reading makes concrete the “good works” disciples are to do. It also makes concrete who disciples are: “light [that] shall break forth like the dawn.” Armed with light and good works, disciples dispel the darkness of the world and shine forth God’s saving works.

… to experience: When the food served is bland, we salt it. When day fades into night, we turn on a light. Simple resolutions for everyday needs. Even these simple resolutions, however, involve a choice and require an action on our part.

**From Saint Louis University