Today’s Bible readings are part pep talk and part marching orders for us!
They offer wonderfully clear guidance on what matters most to God in the way we prioritize our lives and the way He intends for us to use the gifts He has given us.
The first reading, from the prophet Isaiah, gives us very straightforward instructions: “Thus says the Lord: Share your bread with the hungry, shelter the oppressed and the homeless; clothe the naked when you see them, and do not turn your back on your own.” The Lord gives no wiggle room here — care for our brothers and sisters in need is a “must do” for Christian disciples.
But note how generous our God is to us when we do these things. “Then your light shall break forth like the dawn and your wound shall quickly be healed.” The more we give ourselves away the more we will find ourselves, and “light shall rise” for us in the form of more of God’s grace in our lives and more joy and peace in our hearts.
Our Gospel passage, from Saint Matthew sends us on our way with a bang as Jesus declares to us, His disciples, that we are the “salt of the earth” and the “light of the world.” But, He adds, salt no longer gives flavor if allowed to go stale — light cannot bring its blessed brightness if left hidden. Therefore, we must act! We must live our lives so that others will see the things that we do — the ways that we serve others, care for the vulnerable, prioritize our family relationships and above all, our love for God — and then give Him glory.
This is our way of life. Let’s give it our all!
This week we are beginning our annual Diocesan Ministry Appeal. As you watch the video, please consider your generous gift. If you have already made your gift, thank you so much! Our parish goal is 190,000 dollars! f we take our Bible readings seriously today, I am confident we will do even more!
Rev. Mark Zacker
Pastor