Daily Devotional for September 22

 

September 22                                                 Matthew 5:11-16

                    "You are the salt of the earth...
                     You are the light of the world. "

Being the salt of the earth and the light of the world does not
always mean serving God in a dramatic, starring role.
Sometimes we find our most meaningful service in the most
humble tasks, far from the attention of crowds, and without
anyone to applaud or acknowledge us.

Being the salt of the earth and the light of the world may simply
mean a gentle gesture, a caring glance, or a kind word at the
right moment. It may mean saying a quiet prayer that no one
but God hears, but which provides a little extra light for some-
one to see their path. God invites us to be a gift to others in
hundreds of minor, quiet ways.

There is a group of friends who gather three times a week to
prepare food and go into the community to feed hundreds of
homeless people out of an old van that is parked in a poor
section of the city.

There is a man who visits an AIDS patient every day and
occasionally takes him out for a haircut or a movie or dinner
in his home.

There is a woman who cooks dinner once a week for men
living in an AIDS hospice. She shares their meal with them
and spends the evening visiting them.

God invites each of us to flavor our world and let our light
shine in similar ways. That is why Jesus says to us today, "Let
your light so shine before others, that they may see your good
works and give glory to your God who is in heaven."

          Jesus, I am your salt and your light. Give me
 opportunities today to love, serve, and witness to those
   with whom you bring me into contact. I am grateful to
            be able to serve you in even the smallest,
                          humblest task. Amen.

​

From The Road to Emmaus - An inclusive devotional Edited by Joseph W. Houle

Emmaus House of Prayer - Washington D.C.1989