Some passages of scripture make for rough reading. The kingdom calls for radical choices. Today, Jesus calls us to be salt for the earth. This reminds us that if we lower our standards, then the salt that we are will lose its strength, and we shall all fall into mediocrity together. If salt loses its savor, what will you season with?

It’s so easy to justify ourselves as we adjust our standards. We claim that we are adjusting to reality, et cetera, yet are we capable of more? Better? Sooner? Perhaps a friend or a colleague will tell us that we are slipping. It is not easy to take, but with the grace of God and a little humility, it can become an impetus to grow and restore our original thrust to Christ-likeness.

Hasn’t our society come to accept lower standards? The first reading presents us with contrasts. It speaks clearly about corruption and injustice. What was unthinkable has become the norm, often adjusted and accepted. The second part of the first reading calls us to be patient, waiting for the Lord’s coming when the just judge will come and right all wrongs. This patient waiting will be modeled on the prophets, Job, and the saints.

In the meantime, have salt in you and work for peace. Where can I spread the salt of Jesus’ gospel today?

Let Us Pray:

Lord Jesus, on the night of the last supper, you prayed for your disciples that we may be consecrated in your truth. Restore our vision by the light of your gospel; strengthen our wills by the gift of holy communion; guide our choices to be salt of the earth. Amen.