Let’s explore some of the themes in the Mass readings for the 5th Sunday of the Year.
1st Reading – Isaiah 58:7-10
The prophet exhorts the people to corporal works of mercy: sharing food; sheltering the homeless, clothing the naked, responding to the needs of others.
The Lord responds to us when we care for others, and the Lord’s light shines upon us.
Psalm – 112:4-9
“The just man is a light in darkness to the upright.”
Light shines upon those who care for the needs of others.
2nd Reading – 1st Corinthians 2:1-5
Paul reminds the people that he came to them speaking of Christ crucified.
He gave the message simply and without demonstrations of power, so that they would trust in God alone.
Gospel – Matthew 5:13-16
Jesus teaches that we are salt and light, meant to use what we have been given for the good of others.
When we let our light shine, we give glory to our heavenly Father.
Jesus begins the Sermon on the Mount with the Beatitudes, inspiring us to call upon the Lord as we face our struggles and recognize the blessings God offers along the way.
When Mary and extended members of the family of Jesus appear, the Lord speaks to his disciples a message of hope that we can become part of his family when we do the will of God.
Jesus responds to the scribes and speaks about the reality of evil in our world, inviting us to draw close to the Lord as we face the darkness in our lives.