Practicing the beatitudes enables disciples of the Lord to be “Salt of the earth” and “light of the world”. Jesus’ disciples aren’t going to be sitting around in contended beatitude while on this earth. We are given work to do, we’re given a new purpose.
In the ancient world, salt had a number of uses. So, too, Christians are to have a number of jobs.
First salt is used as a seasoning. So, too, Christians are to be a sort of seasoning to an otherwise bland world. There is nothing more interesting, no one more full of life than a true Christian saint filled with the life of Christ. Something each of us are to aspire to.
Salt is also a Preservative: In the days before refrigeration, salt made preserving food possible for times of famine. Christians will have the job of preserving what is good and holy in creation, opposing spiritual decay. Salt is also needed for life. You cannot survive without some salt. Similarly, Christians need to be salt in this way. The health of a society can be measured by its Christians living faithfully according to the precepts of our faith.
Salt is also a Purifier: The salt in the oceans of the world that act as a natural cleaning agent, and most water purification systems use salt as a "purifier." Christians are to be the world’s purifiers: opposing the corrupting powers of malice and perversion and greed, purifying the mind and heart of society by preaching the word and calling to conversion.
Finally, just like it’s used on our roads, in ancient times salt was also used to prevent people from slipping on slippery paths. Christians are called to help souls from slipping into damnation—promoting the teachings of Jesus which give stability to civilization.
Christians are also called to be the light of the world, we are to be out in the world, shining with good deeds, so that the nations might trace our good deeds back to our God who inspires them.
What a wonderful vocation: to be salt and light. But the Lord, in this passage also gives his first warnings. Salt can lose its flavor, light can be hidden under a bushel. Christians must not allow these things to happen. You must chose to be faithful to your vocation every day. Living the beatitudes is a choice, being the salt you are called to be, and the light you are called to be requires an intentional decision: study, prayer, effort, courage, and patience.
May our Christian saltiness, our brightness, and the beatitude of the Lord increase in us today and all days, for the glory of God and salvation of souls.
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For the whole Christian people, that the beatitudes of Christ may animate our lives. Let us pray to the Lord.
For our President and all elected government representatives, may the Holy Spirit grant them wisdom and guide them to promote authentic and lasting peace in the world, an end to terrorism, respect for religious freedom, and a greater reverence for the sanctity of Human Life. Let us pray to the Lord.
For blessings upon the priests of the diocese who begin new assignments today: may their ministry be blessed with the goodness, truth, and beauty of the Lord. Let us pray to the Lord.
For our young people beginning summer vacation, that they may be kept close to the truth and heart of Jesus, that young people may live in faith-filled homes where the Gospel is cherished, studied, and lived-out. Let us pray to the lord.
For all of the sick and suffering, for the grace to unite their sufferings with Christ and to know His consolation and peace.
For our departed loved ones and all of the souls in purgatory, and for N. for whom this Mass is offered. We pray to the Lord.
Incline your merciful ear to our prayers, we ask, O Lord, and listen in kindness to the supplications of those who call on you. Through Christ our Lord
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