We have been hearing for a few weeks about God being light for those who walk in darkness. This week, Jesus tells us that WE can become light for others. By participating in God’s will (that is, by enacting justice and compassion) we also participate in the beauty of God. We don’t generate the light ourselves; rather, we reflect God’s light outward, making it brighter so that all might see it.
As we carry out works of mercy, we may not think about light at all; such acts are messy, thankless, inconvenient, and far from glamorous. However, to those to whom we have shown mercy, we are light, and God assures that these good deeds are beautiful in God’s eyes.
We are just a few weeks away from Lent, a time when we contemplate God’s mercy that is made known to us in the Passion of His Son. Well before Lent, we might think not about what we will “give up,” but rather how we will reflect God’s light. Maybe we think not about how we will get through the dark and wintry days of dreary Lent, but rather how we will love our way through Lent by bringing light to the darkness experienced by our brothers and sisters who are poor, lonely, sick, or struggling in any way.
Jesus also speaks of “salt” this weekend. Salt adds flavor to even the plainest of dishes; it helps people taste. The gifts and grace that we bring to those who are hurting, helps them to have a better experience of the life that God gave them.
Pray about how YOU can be salt and light. Start in Lent, and then keep on “salting” and “lighting.” You might just wind up seeing the beauty of God – now and in Heaven.
Welcome to the Saint Aloysius! Our parish was founded in 1896 to serve the Catholic families that were settling in the greater New Canaan area.