Catholic Calendar for Sunday, February 6, 2005
The Fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
Isaiah 58:7-10
Psalm 112:4-9
1 Corinthians 2:1-5
Matthew 5:13-16

A reflection on today's Sacred Scripture:

"Your good deeds glorify your heavenly Father" (see Matthew 5:16)

Each soul is created to be in the image and likeness of God. Jesus instructs us to 'make present to all' this image of God, the very salt and light of our existence, in a manner like these essential elements. We present this glorifiable God 'present within us' by our deeds, as one quietly introduces salt to cooking and light readily dispels darkness.

Salt is quite unseen, yet enhances the flavor of all it touches; it preserves and protects food from ruin. The love we extend to others through the graces of 'God with us' reveals His goodness through these deeds and evokes a response with beauty to His glory. Our effort of will to 'make known His presence within us' in our daily duties achieves quietly for life what salt achieves for food: goodness, protection and preservation of the good. If we fail to act, we fail to bring God where He desires to be, everywhere. God is quite missed as salt is longed for where not included.

Light reveals what darkness veils, quietly facilitating understanding, safe passage, growth and warmth. Light instills assurance, confidence and discovery. Our vigilant good deeds through love for God and others reveal Him. We become as the light of the wise virgins watching always for their beloved, espoused One, the tabernacle vigil lamp making known Jesus' presence, the soul enlightened by God, careful to keep Him bright with purity, humility and love.

O Lord,
may we be vigilant bearers of your presence within us,
as salt and light,
that others may taste and see how lovely and loving you are.
Amen

- Mary Williams
(www.impactbydesign.biz)

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posted by joachim at 6:30 AM