Salt of the Earth
Fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time (A)
Read this Gospel passage aloud to the family
Matthew 5:13-16 - Jesus said to his disciples: “You are the salt of the earth. But if salt loses its taste, with what can it be seasoned? It is no longer good for anything but to be thrown out and trampled underfoot. You are the light of the world. A city set on a mountain cannot be hidden. Nor do they light a lamp and then put it under a bushel basket; it is set on a lampstand, where it gives light to all in the house. Just so, your light must shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your heavenly Father.”
(Parent) Reread this part a few times aloud
“You are the light of the world. A city set on a mountain cannot be hidden.”
(Parent) Read this meditation aloud to the family
Jesus is talking to His disciples here, and by extension us, at the Sermon on the Mount. He tells us that we are the light of the world, and we are supposed to let that light shine. This is a very important teaching for us. Jesus is saying that the world is in darkness. Picture someone stumbling around in complete darkness looking for help, looking for comfort, looking for safety. Now picture us as the only hint of light around—what is our responsibility? Should we hide our light? Or must we shine our light for all to see?
The world needs Catholics. The world needs Catholics to be authentic Catholics. (The world has had enough of bad Catholics.) There are many people who are in great spiritual danger. They are looking for help, and comfort, and safety—but they are finding none. Wake up, Catholics! Our life is not about our school, jobs, home, friends, fun, stuff… Our life is about God. There are many people looking for this real meaning. They need us to help bring this light to them. We need to be less selfish, less afraid, less comfortable. We need to share our faith. In prayer, consider how each of us can practically share our faith with someone in darkness today.
As a family, pray a portion of the Rosary together (very short if children are young) reflecting on the Scripture passage above. (Optional: allow a brief time for discussion or questions from children concerning their thoughts and prayer.)
Reminder for Parents: Pier is just meant to be a jumping off point. The real goal is that you pray & eventually use the fruits of your personal prayer as the content of your family’s prayer. Duc in altum.
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