This Sunday we are called to be “salt and light.” For centuries salt has been a staple for preserving, flavoring, and it even had its role in liturgical ritual. As we live out our discipleship, we need “salt” – the encouragement, support, and prayer that enable us to follow Jesus and bring light to others. As a parish family, we can be salt and light for one another and build up our community of faith.

The Gospel this Sunday is part of Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount. The “Beatitudes” are a reminder that we can count on God to provide for us as we live out our discipleship. In our mourning, humility, working for justice, and peacemaking we are “blessed” because we are proclaiming the Kingdom of God. We are comforted, shown mercy, and will see God. The Beatitudes challenge us to Gospel living and demonstrate that doing the will

This Sunday’s psalm refrain (“Here I am, Lord; I come to do your will”) challenges us to think and pray about how we live out our own discipleship. A new year brings an opportunity to make resolutions for better living. But before we make any big plans, we should pray that God’s plans for us are honored by our intentional listening, our docility, and our gracious reception of God’s love. Prayer that leads us to