Jesus challenges us today to be “the light of the world.” To be “a light to the nations” was an essential aspect of the mission of the Messiah. He came in Jesus Christ as “the real light, which enlightens every man”. His thoughts, words, attitudes, and actions were such that in all truth he could claim: “I am the light of the world”. We understand and gratefully accept all this. But when we hear Jesus himself say to his disciples: “You are the salt of the earth, you are the light of the world,” we know that he was not stating a fact, for he knew that the behavior of his disciples was far from being exemplary. Rather, Jesus was throwing a challenge at them. He was giving them a mission. He was describing what all his disciples –in all times and places– should strive to become. St. Paul understood this perfectly. That is why he once reminded his converts that, since they were “children of light and of the day,” they should behave accordingly. The mission entrusted by Jesus to his disciples and the exhortations of St. Paul are as valid today as they were more than two thousand years ago. If we want to be real disciples of Christ, “the Light of the world,” our consciences have to be clear and transparent; our behavior must have the refulgence of love, honesty, purity, respect, and sincerity. Our life then will become bright and meaningful, for the simple reason that we will be becoming ever more Christ-like. Then even other people’s lives will take on meaning and brightness too because our authentic Christian life will have become an inspiration for all those who live in a world darkened by sin in its many forms. Becoming the light of the world is a challenge worth accepting and living up to. If we persevere in this effort, at the end of our life, the Lord himself will tell us in all truth: “You have done your best to be the salt of the earth and the light of the world!” That will be a wonderful synthesis of a life well spent.
HOLY SPIRIT: INSPIRE US
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