Light and Salt to the World

June 13, Tuesday of the 10th week in Ordinary Time
Memorial of Saint Anthony of Padua, Priest and Doctor of the Church
Daily Readings:2 Corinthians 1: 18-22, Gospel: Matthew. 5:13-16

In our uncertain and darkest world, we are called salt and light. Riches, power, and control are valued highly in our world. But Jesus draws on little things to teach deeper values. Salt preserves food; in the hands of a skilled cook, it adds flavor to food. But its work is hidden. Too much salt masks the flavor. As the salt of the earth, we can effectively bring more taste to others' lives. If there is no salt, then the food is tasteless. But just a little salt enhances the flavor significantly. We need to remember that we are not called to be a majority. We are called to fulfill our function as salt.

Light does not change a room; it lets us see what is in it. It helps us appreciate what is good and beautiful and facilitates avoiding pitfalls. Jesus, as portrayed in the Gospel today as the world's light, illuminates our lives because we are children of the light (John 8:12). This light helps us see the hidden hope of glory in us. So we can rejoice even in the darkness of the world.

Our presence might not change the whole world, but it helps others see God's abundant grace in their lives. Saint Anthony, whom we celebrate today, is a saint of the people, a saint to the whole world. He once became salt and light for others and brought them to Catholicism. May his prayers give us the courage to be salt and light to the world.