Education in Faith

5th Sunday In Ordinary Time

You are the light of the world !!!

This week’s gospel passage is one that is quite commonly quoted and relatively well known. When taken in isolation, it’s very easy to forget that these words immediately follow the Beatitudes that we heard in last week’s gospel. 

The essential lesson for justice in the images of salt and light of the world becomes even clearer when we remember that these words follow the blessings on those who are poor; who mourn; who are merciful and fight for justice. Jesus has blessed all these who are least in the world and then charges the disciples to be salt and light for them.

The dictionary defines ‘example’ as being a model, pattern or sample. Isaiah and Matthew are referring to letting our light shine in all situations so we may be an example for others.

The theme of ‘light’ occurs in both the first reading and the gospel. Can you think of someone in your life who is like ‘light for the world’? Have you ever stopped to think that, in your children's liturgy ministry, you are light for the children? There are many situations in our daily lives where we are called to be light for others. Sometimes our light sputters and goes out, but, happily, it can always be re-ignited!

Have you thought? – Affirmation or Challenge

The salt and light of the world passage is often used to affirm and encourage, but when Jesus tells his disciples and us to be salt and light of the world it is not so that they can draw attention and glory to themselves. The whole purpose of being salt and light is to lead others into right relationship with one another and with God. Whilst the translation we have clearly states that disciples are to be salt and light of the world, it is just as clear that the intention is that they/we be salt and light for the world.

Food for thought

Gandhi, the great leader of the Indian independence movement, is credited with saying, ‘You must be the change you want to see in the world.’ He sought a life free from tyranny and violence and so led a movement of non-violent resistance. It’s tempting to think that he may have been influenced by some of the teachings of Jesus because so much of his approach reflected Jesus’ call for justice. The charge to be the light of the world that shines in the sight of all and sets an example for all is echoed succinctly in Gandhi’s words.

As we read about letting our light shine and being the salt of the earth. Maybe sometime this week share some ideas with your children and the family about letting our lights shine on one another. Keep in mind that as we let our light shine we become an example or model to others.

Discussion Starters

• Who has ever tasted chocolate that doesn’t have sugar in it?
• What do you think it would taste like?
• Jesus tells us we are like flavour in food. What might that mean?
• Who has seen a bright light outside?
• How far away can it be seen?
• Jesus asks us to be a light for the whole world. How big would that light have to be?
• Others can see our light when they see the good things we do.
• What are some good things that we can do to make our light shine brightly?

Sacramental News and Dates

Sacrament Levy

There is a $25 Sacrament Levy to cover the cost for:

•  a guest speaker to conduct a Parent and Child Workshop for each Sacrament.
• professionally made stoles. 
• a candle for children receiving reconciliation.
• children receiving First Eucharist and Confirmation to travel to St. Kevin’s Church for Reconciliation, Eucharist practice, and reflection day by bus.

This levy needs to be paid in full to the school in an envelope clearly indicating your child’s name, Home Group and name of Sacrament being received at the start of the year, before or on the day of your Family Workshop Session.

God Bless

Rozeta Ambrose

rambrose@sfslynbrook.catholic.edu.au