FIFTH SUNDAY OF ORDINARY TIME YEAR A
1st Reading: (Isaiah, 58:7-10)
RESPONSORIAL PSALM (Psalm 112:4-5.6-7.8a and 9 (R. 4a)
2nd Reading: (1 Corinthians 2:1-5)
Gospel Reading: (Matthew 5: 13- 16)
1st Reading: (Isaiah, 58:7-10)
RESPONSORIAL PSALM (Psalm 112:4-5.6-7.8a and 9 (R. 4a)
2nd Reading: (1 Corinthians 2:1-5)
Gospel Reading: (Matthew 5: 13- 16)
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| Ignatius Akiti Jude |
Being a CHRISTIAN automatically is living a blessed Life and this comes with a number of responsibilities, and today’s readings remind us of some of them. The First Reading focuses on outward works of faith. This is practically doing good to other with the physical l blessings God has given us, this blessings are not for our own self-aggrandizement, but so that we can become a blessing to others. Christians are called to selfless service to humanity and to God’s creation. We are caretakers of what God has entrusted to us.
We have been blessed in many ways materially, intellectually, financially, and otherwise but these blessings are not meant for us alone. Nature teaches us this lesson clearly. A mango or orange tree produces fruit, but it cannot eat its own fruit. When the season comes, it bears fruit so that others may benefit and appreciate God for its beauty. In the same way, our blessings are meant for those around us it will be a waste not to share them. This is the ministry we are called to, especially through charity to the poor and help for the needy (Isaiah 58:7; Proverbs 19:17) such is the focus of our first reading.
The responsorial psalm assures us that those who live upright and just lives will surely receive help. This is God’s promise. And very often, that help comes through someone else whom God has already blessed (Psalm 112:4).
The second reading reminds us of another Christian responsibility, sharing wisdom, discernment, and light, everything doesn't have to be about physical goods and riches, Through our words and actions, we can counsel others and lead them toward a better way of life through the transforming message of the Gospel (1 Corinthians 2:12).
In the Gospel, Jesus brings everything together when He tells us that we are the salt of the earth and the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden (Matthew 5:13–16). Light and darkness cannot blend. If our lives show no difference from those who do not believe, then our light needs to be questioned. The truth here is if people observe the way ans manner you life your life and can't tell or identify you as a Christian then you are simply not one. Because light is always distinct by virtue of its physical and inherent quality from darkness.
May God enlighten our hearts and minds, so that we may truly shine as His light, in our families, our communities, and wherever we find ourselves, brings direction and discernment to those blind and lost in this world engulfed In Darkness so that through our lives, Christ may be revealed and glorified. This we ask, Through Christ our Lord.
Amen .🙏
My Reflection:
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| Awotoye Matthew |
In this Gospel, Jesus reminds us of who we are meant to be salt and light in the world. Salt preserves, adds value, and brings taste; in the same way, our lives as Christians should influence our environment positively through love, kindness, integrity, and humility. When we lose these virtues, we risk losing our true purpose and impact.
Jesus also calls us the light of the world. Light does not struggle to be seen it simply shines. Our good works, words, and attitudes should reflect Christ naturally so that others may see God through us. We are not called to hide our faith or goodness but to live it openly, inspiring hope and giving glory to God.
Today’s message challenges us to ask ourselves: Am I adding value where I am? Am I shining light or contributing to darkness? Even in small acts a kind word, forgiveness, support, honesty we become light in someone’s life.
May God help us remain faithful salt and shining light, so that through our lives, others may encounter His love and give glory to Him. Amen.
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| Genevieve Nwaneri |
Jesus admonishes us to be two essential elements:Salt and Light. Imagine a food without salt;it won't be palatable to eat. Also imagine a room without light; nothing will be visible. These essential qualities that these two elements possess are what is demanded from us as Christians.
One thing that salt and light have in common is that they both make a difference wherever they are. Christians are not called to blend into the world or imitate culture that have been termed 'Normal' by the society, rather our Christianity must reflect Christ-like values and qualities. Whether we like it or not, our actions speak. The question is not if we are seen, but what people see when they look at us. A lamp placed on a stand exists not for itself but to illuminate others.
The final line is the major part:'Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and give glory to your father who is in heaven '.The goal is not admiration or praise for ourselves but praise and honour to God.
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| Emmanuel Nmormah |
Reflection
The responsorial psalm tells us that light rises in the darkness of the upright. It goes to tell us that irrespective of what you might be going through at the moment, there is always light at the end of the tunnel and God will make a way. Just remain steadfast and faithful.
My Reflection
Be Light and Salt of the Earth
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| Vivian Agatha Oyih |
In the gospel passage, our Lord Jesus reminds us that we are the salt 🧂 of the earth, but if the salt loses its test, it becomes saltless and of no value. We become saltless when we no longer care about the well-being of others, and we behave worse than unbelievers.
As Christians, every step in our lives is very important. Our relationship with one another and society at large is very important. If the words that come out of your mouth do not glorify the Lord by expressing love to others, then you are saltless.
We are also the light of the world, and the light of Christ in us is expected to shine wherever we go. Our good work should draw people to Christ.
May the light of Christ in our lives continue to spread and win more souls for the kingdom.
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| Emmanuel Ojo |
The first reading calls us - believers to genuine acts of compassion and justice... urging us to share our food with the hungry, shelter the homeless, clothe the naked, and remove oppression, false accusations. When we care for the afflicted and live justly, our “light” breaks forth in the dark.
The Responsorial Psalm echoes this by describing the blessings of the upright person who is generous, merciful, and just. Such a person shines like a light in the dark, stands in times of trouble, and trusts confidently in the Lord.
In the second reading, Saint Paul stresses that faith rests not on human wisdom or eloquence but on the power of Christ crucified and the Spirit of God. As the salt of the earth, we are to preserve goodness and visibly reflect God’s truth through our actions.
Glory to Jesus, I'm honoured to be part of this week chosen reflection, may the words of God be rooted in our souls and bring forth good fruit.
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