Tuesday of the 10th week in ordinary time

2 Cor. 1: 18-22        Mathew 5: 13-16

Theme: Disciples with a difference

In the two readings we have today, it presents to us our identity as children of God and followers of Christ. In the 1st reading of today, St. Paul points out the faithfulness of God to the people of Corinth, and how they have remained steadfast in the ways of God and have taught them to practice the same thing in their own lives. This is the same message that is presented to all of us as followers of Christ in our own time. The message of St. Paul in today’s 1st reading is not something beyond us, because he was preaching a life that he and his companions were already practicing amongst those they ministered to in their missionary endeavours. So, he is talking about a lifestyle that we all are capable of practicing in our daily lives. This admonition of Paul is practiced by many Christians in our own time. It is for you to decide and make up your mind that you want to be among those who have opted for this choice. One thing you must know is that you don’t have to be perfect for you to be able to practice this love and faithfulness in your own life. What is most important is your sincere desire to practice it in your personal life and do all you can to make it a reality. Whenever your strength fails you, the grace of God will come through for you. Remember, God does not call the perfect or qualified, rather he call’s you and qualifies you. So, never thing you cannot do it or that you are not good enough.

Dear friends in Christ, if we take seriously the admonition of St. Paul in today’s 1st reading, and practice it in our lives, it will make the assertion of Jesus in the Gospel reading of today more meaningful to us. In today’s Gospel reading from St. Mathew, Jesus reminds us of who we are as children of God and followers of Christ. We are the salt of the earth and the light of the world, by implication, we are ambassadors for Christ. We can impact positively and make a difference in our world, if our lives reflect that we are truly the salt of the earth and the light of the world. Our way of life will be a powerful way of witnessing to Christ in our world. Interestingly, that is what is needed in our world today. Our words alone are no longer enough; we must also practice what we preach in our own personal lives. This is one way through which we can be true salt of the earth and light of the world. Accept this invitation today and the grace of God will sustain you, in the name of the father and of the son and of the holy spirit, Amen. Peace be with you.