SATURDAY OF THE WORD OF GOD (SATWOG FEBRUARY 4TH, 2023) INSPIRING REFLECTIONS OF MEMBERS

 

LAITY REFLECTIONS FOR THE 5TH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME, YEAR A

First Reading: Isaiah 58:7-10
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 112:4-5.6-7.8a and 9 (R. 4a)
Second Reading: 1 Corinthians 2:1-5
Alleluia: John 8:12
Gospel: Matthew 5:13-16

Etsegbe Solomon

MY REFLECTION

Jesus tells us that we are “the salt of the earth” and “the light of the world”, thus conferring on us the privilege and responsibility of being life-giving. When we survey a society often riddled with corruption, violence, oppression, and dishonesty, we wonder what the Lord would expect us to do. Since he has asked that we be a force of transformation we pray for guidance.

When many are being dishonest, can I refrain from giving or receiving bribes? Professionally can I do quality work that Jesus would be delighted to see? When juicy gossip is circulating, can I stay silent? When the general practice is to ‘save’ by offering the least possible salary to those who work for me, can I be generous?

The focus of Jesus’ plea is not me, it is our Father in heaven (Mt 5:16). So if I make a show of my virtue, this sinful pride can itself be distasteful, like far too much salt in the food.  

Shalom!

Dominic Methodius

MY REFLECTION

The world teaches us to stand out, to be noticed. Almost in contrast, Jesus gives us the example of salt: to be lost, with not even a visible trace left behind, but with tremendous and palpable impact.

Salt turns something insipid into something flavourful and delicious. So many around us are going through life depressed and despondent; living insipid lives filled with darkness and gloom.

Can I take a moment today and ask the Holy Spirit to show me someone into whose life I could add salt and light? And then do it again tomorrow? And the day after, until it becomes a habit and a way of life for me.

Both the readings also show the need to add flavour to the lives of others– not only by our deeds but also by speaking of the cross of Christ. Not for me to be praised or to stand out, but to glorify our Abba Father!

Michael Umande

MY REFLECTION

From the Second Reading

"...in weakness and in much fear and trembling."

Still recounting his life, Paul tells us how he lived with the Corinthians and brought the Gospel to them. In other words, he tells us how his light shines among the people of Corinth.

First, he came to them with a pure and simple message - the message of Christ and the Cross. This message reflects the life of the people and the way to accept suffering as a way of sharing in the light of Christ.

Second, he lived recognizing his dependency on God. He shines not by his light but by the light of Christ. 

That is why God has allowed each one of us to have inadequacies and weaknesses so He can shine through us. Although, we should organize our thoughts about our faith and be able to explain it effectively to anyone who might ask (1 Peter 3:15), we must remember that the power of the gospel comes not in our careful explanations but in the mighty resurrection of Christ and His power to draw people to Himself (John 6:44; 12:32).

So you see, it is not bad to have weaknesses, but it is how you manage it.

Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit...