Word from the Pastor

Fift Sunday in Ordinary Time

“ You are the Light of the world.”

Dear parish family,
Last Sunday, we began to read the Sermon on the mountain, the most important teaching of Jesus in the gospel of Matthew. We continue, with great joy, our prayerful reading of the Sermon on the mountain. Jesus, on the mountain, calls to mind the proclamation of the Old Law by Moses. Jesus stands as the Moses of the new age promulgating a message as powerful as the Ten Commandments. ​

After the powerful introduction of this amazing speech, Jesus focuses his attention on the mission that is ours. After all, each person needs to have an objective in life. We must have a mission otherwise we are aimless. Every journey has a destination. How pitiful are those who are deprived of directions. In this Sunday’s gospel, Jesus skillfully uses two simple images to get his point across. You are the light of the world says he; you are the salt of the earth. ​

Light dispels darkness. Light is essential to one who wants to see. Today’s world seems to be walking in darkness; it has no clue as to where it is going and it is purposeless. The Christian is precisely the one sent to show the world that it has an eternal destiny. Yes, be a light to your intimate partner, your children, at your workplace and in the public forum. Stand as one who is very gentle and yet very visible by his style and options. Don’t be afraid to show the way. Only Love saves the world and Jesus is Love incarnate. The Christian is the candle lit by Christ to make his love seen and believed. ​

“You are the salt of the earth.” Salt gives good taste to the food and also preserves fish and meat from spoiling. Jesus’ words and grace give meaning to life. It fulfills the deepest longings of the heart. Be salt! By your example permeate the fabric of people’s existence. Witness to honesty, peace, and love! Help people recognize their dignity and the sacred character of their life. Enhance the quality of their daily dealings and activities. The pursuit of justice and holiness will add good taste to everything they do. Alcohol, drugs and even good meals, wealth and fleshly pleasures are not enough for man’s heart. As St. Augustine of Hippo said: “Our hearts were made for you oh Lord, and they are restless until they rest in you” We secretly long for much more. ​

Love is born from a relationship to a person and that person is Jesus. Without the fulfillment Jesus brings, life is dull like soup without salt. In a world of much injustice, violence and misery, be the light that can brighten people’s sight, the salt that will stop the rotting of society! Discover and embrace God’s love made near and human in Jesus Christ, discern Jesus alive in the Church and your light will shine brightly. Accept be lit, to be enlightened! Enjoy the good taste of Love! Fall in love with Jesus! ​

Have a blessed week! ​

Fr. Jean Jadotte
Pastor