In this week’s Gospel, Jesus moves from the interior attitudes of the Beatitudes to their outward expression in the world. His images of salt and light make it clear that discipleship is never meant to be hidden or self-contained. Faith that does not engage with life, with people and with society, risks losing its very purpose.
The image of salt is arresting in its simplicity. Salt exists to season, to preserve, to bring out flavour. On its own it is insignificant, but mixed into food it transforms the whole dish. Jesus’ warning is sharp: salt that has lost its taste is useless. Christianity, then, cannot be an inward-turning, self-regarding asceticism. The believer who has no effect on the world around them becomes insipid. There is no such thing as a closet-Christian. Faith that never leaves the safety of private devotion or comfortable circles contradicts the very nature of the gospel, which is meant to penetrate and influence the ordinary realities of life.
The second image reinforces this call to visible discipleship. Light is meant to be seen. A lamp hidden under a bowl is not merely pointless; it denies its identity. In the same way, following Christ cannot remain invisible. Jesus does not ask his disciples to draw attention to themselves, but he does insist that their lives be luminous with goodness. Their actions, choices and relationships should reflect something of God’s own light breaking into the world.
Importantly, Jesus clarifies the purpose of this visibility: “that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven.” The goal is not admiration but revelation. Through lives shaped by mercy, integrity and courage, others are drawn toward God.
Salt and light remind us that Christian faith is inherently relational and outward-facing. It exists not only for personal salvation but for the transformation of the world. To follow Christ is to live in such a way that the world tastes and sees something of God’s reign made real in everyday life.
Fr Stephen Berecz
