ST ANTHONY OF PADUA P.D., (Memorial) White

He was from a noble family but chose to be a poor Franciscan priest. After the burial of St Bernard and his companions, the first Franciscan martyrs, Anthony left his order and entered the Friars Minor. He evangelise in Morocco. Anthony lived in a cave at San Paolo leaving only to attend Mass and sweep the nearby monastery. One day when a scheduled preacher failed to appear, the brothers pressed Anthony into speaking. He impressed them so much that thereafter, he began to travel for evangelisation and preaching, teaching theology throughout Italy and France. He was proclaimed a Doctor of the Church on 16 January 1946.

First Reading: 2Cor 1:18-22; Psalm: 119. R. 35a; Gospel: Mt 5:13-16

BE THE SALT OUR WORLD NEEDS

BY FR VALENTINE NNAMDI EGBUONU, MSP

In the gospel of today Jesus used the utility of salt to define what is required of every true Christian. Jesus reminded us that we are the salt of the earth. This metaphorical expression does well to explain how very useful every Christian is to the world. As salt is very useful to us in our daily activities, and as light is important to us in the midst of darkness; so is every Christians useful to the world.

So, if salt could kill germs, then we could also dispel destructive tendencies. We can fight the germs of corruption, lies, fraud, and all kinds of evil desires that can infect the human heart. If salt could preserve food, then we are called to keep those around us unspoiled by inspiring them with the moral standard of Christian living and not let them decay in sin. If salt adds taste to our food; then we are called to likewise make a difference in the world. Where there is pain and sorrow, we should bring comfort. Where there is division, we should bring unity. Where there is fighting, we should bring peace. And where there is despair, we should become beacons of hope.

Jesus said that if salt loses its taste it should be thrown out and trodden under foot. This is a warning to us that if we failed in our duties as believers, punishment awaits us. Have we lost our saltiness? This is a question that calls for reflection.

PRAYER FOR THE DAY

Jesus our Saviour, help us to become salt to our world. Amen.

FR VALENTINE EGBUONU, MSP