Daily Scripture Reflection & Prayer: June 11, 2024

Date: Memorial of St. Barnabas

Scripture Text:  Matthew 5:13-16

Jesus said to his disciples:

“You are the salt of the earth. But if salt loses its taste, with what can it be seasoned? It is no longer good for anything but to be thrown out and trampled underfoot.

You are the light of the world. A city set on a mountain cannot be hidden. Nor do they light a lamp and then put it under a bushel basket; it is set on a lampstand, where it gives light to all in the house. Just so, your light must shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your heavenly Father.”

Breaking the text open – background and summary:

The gospel reading for today from Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount as recorded by Matthew presents two of Jesus’ most familiar metaphors. Jesus tells his followers that we are “the salt of the earth” and “the light of the world.” Jesus’ words tell us, as followers, that we have a purpose, a mission for good.

Meditating on the text with personal questions:

Have I discerned my part in Jesus’ mission? How am I salt or light to others?

Praying:

LORD, Jesus Christ, Son of God, my Savior, as your loving disciple, I seek to follow You, to walk in your footsteps, to follow your example. For love of You and love of others, I long to live the life you call me to live, to be the “salt of the earth” and the “light of the world.” Through the power of the Spirit, may my words and actions be instruments in your ongoing mission of salvation. Be with me, Jesus.