The Book of Isaiah chapter 58 begins by Isaiah describing true fasting in the eyes of God. We often hear this passage during the season of Lent. Today’s selection tells us about the fasting that God desires: Thus says the Lord: Share your bread with the hungry, shelter the oppressed and the homeless, cloth the naked when you see them, and do not turn your back on your own. Then the light shall break forth like the dawn…(Is58:7-8) In other words, our religious practices and worship must be connected to living out the gospel of love.
The just man is a light in darkness to the upright. (Ps112:4) When we think, speak and act in a loving way, we make God’s presence known to those around us. Thus the just person acts the same way God does.
…my message and my proclamation were not with persuasive words of wisdom, but with a demonstration of spirit and power. (1Cor2:4) Like St. Paul we too are called by our Baptism to proclaim Jesus Christ to our world. St. Paul does so, by the power of the Holy Spirit. We turn to the Holy Spirit to live the gospel of love in a powerful way, not necessarily through eloquent words, but with the witness of our daily ordinary life – being faithful and faith-filled.
Just so, your light must shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your heavenly Father. (Mt5:16) God is glorified through our witness of love. Every person has an opportunity to be “the salt of the earth.” Each of us can add “flavor” to the world, by using our time, talent and treasure in service of our brothers and sisters in Christ.
May God bless us all always!
Deacon Mike