Gospel: Matthew 5: 13-16
In the wisdom literature of the Old Testament a lamp is consistently used as an image of wisdom. It is the light of wisdom that leads us through the darkness of ignorance in the world. It enables us to see rightly so that we may direct our actions to good deeds and ends. Wisdom is the divine illumination that provides warmth and light to a cold, dark world.
Today Jesus urges us to light our lamp and let it shine forth in the world. This light already exists within us as images of God and temples of the Holy Spirit. We have only to bring out that light through our outward actions to show forth this wisdom in the world. We do this by living the Beatitudes: being poor in spirit, merciful, pure of heart, meek, peacemakers, thirstful for justice, joyful in accepting persecution.
The Beatitudes are the summit of the Christian virtues and the outward expression of the wisdom that exists within us. By living these virtues we provide illumination to the word - we provide warmth and light to a world in need of the warmth of love and the light of wise living. Let our light shine before all people, that they may see our good deeds and give glory to God in heaven.
No comments:
Post a Comment