The Light of Christ – Reflection on Matthew 5:13-16
To be humble is to be modest with our importance, unassuming, and not showy. How is it then possible, while being humble, to then be an unhidden light, shining bright enough for everyone to see? Ah… it is through gloriously letting the Light of Christ shine, not our own. Jesus repeatedly teaches us that people will see this light much easier if we are not boastful or hypocritical. Our abundant light is for others in our quiet doing and being present. We can let people speak without judgment and just be still to allow the excess spiritual treasure we have to flow to the other. Listening and talking with spiritual kindness and restraint are good spiritual works we can give to others without expectations. Admittedly, this extraordinary combination of quiet, humility, and light is a human trait that is difficult to believe we have without Divine aid. It is hard to implement, but we should believe that as the light of the world, we should be peaceful and give Christ’s light a chance to work.
The Sermon of the Beatitudes by James Tissot. (full-resolution image of painting).
More details are available on the Brooklyn Museum website.
Additional Ordinary Time Reflections
Matthew 5:13-16 – Scripture *
Salt and Light
13 “You are the salt of the earth; but if salt has lost its taste, how can its saltiness be restored? It is no longer good for anything, but is thrown out and trampled under foot.
14 “You are the light of the world. A city built on a hill cannot be hid. 15 No one after lighting a lamp puts it under the bushel basket, but on the lampstand, and it gives light to all in the house. 16 In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven.
Additional Thoughts
Thank you for meditating on this Gospel and reading this Lectio Divina on Matthew 5:13-16 Reflection – Light of Christ.
Would you like to contribute related thoughts to these Lectio reflections on the Gospel readings? Since Lectio is not the only contemplative prayer style, others might appreciate these types of expressions in this ministry. Do you see God’s grandeur everywhere and unconditionally enjoy sharing the love of Christ that you have inside? Are you willing to be anonymous in what you would share? If so, email me.
Prayer for young families:
Lord, let the young families of our communities experience your joy, peace, comfort, and love despite worldly distractions.
Attributions
*This site has permission to use the New Revised Standard Version Catholic Edition (NRSVCE) Bible Matthew 5 passage.
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Primary Lectio Divina word or phrase: Light of Christ
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