13 June, 2023 | Memorial of Saint Anthony of Padua, Priest and Doctor of the Church
Gospel Mt 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." Reflections Jesus is saying here that just as salt was critical to preserving food, so too are Christians responsible for the preserving of morality, justice and social conscience. But not only does salt preserve, it flavors. Likewise Christians should add flavor to the world. This is the role of the church. To preserve and flavor. And historically this is exactly what the church, and followers of Jesus, have done. Light is not a theological con