ORDINARY TIME WEEK 5 [year A] (Feb 8, 2026): Is 58:7-10; I Cor 2:1-5; Mt 5: 13-16. BY REV FR CLIFFORD ATTA ANIM.

Salt of the Earth and Light of the World

The common theme of today’s three readings is our two-fold mission to the world, to be salt and to be the light of a city built on a hilltop. Jesus challenges us not only to belong to Him privately, but to influence the world visibly and meaningfully by the way we live.

Scripture Lessons Summarized

In the first reading, the Lord speaks through the prophet Isaiah and gives us concrete ways by which God’s light is meant to shine through us. Sharing our bread with the hungry, sheltering the homeless, clothing the naked, and refusing to turn our backs on our own brothers and sisters are presented as acts that allow God’s light to rise in our darkness. When compassion becomes action, gloom gives way to brightness.

The Responsorial Psalm reminds us that the just person becomes a light in the darkness. Righteous living is never hidden. It shines quietly but powerfully, guiding others by example rather than by noise or force.

In the second reading, Saint Paul explains that the credibility of our proclamation does not rest on eloquence or human wisdom. The Gospel carries power only when it relies on God’s wisdom and the working of the Holy Spirit. Faith that is rooted in God, not in human pride, becomes convincing and life-giving.

In the Gospel, Jesus uses two simple but profound images to describe the Christian vocation, salt and light. In the ancient world, salt symbolized purity and was used in religious sacrifices. It also preserved food from decay and added flavor to what was otherwise tasteless. Light, on the other hand, was always meant to be seen. It guided travelers, warned of danger, and gave warmth and life. By these images, Jesus defines the visible and transforming role of His disciples in the world.

Life Messages

1) We need to be the salt of the earth

As salt symbolizes purity, the Christian is called to be an example of purity in speech, conduct, and even thought. As salt heals and disinfects, Christians are meant to have a healing influence in society by resisting corruption, confronting injustice, and helping others avoid sin. As salt preserves, we are called to safeguard the faith, Christian moral values, and the Gospel message entrusted to us, while working to reconcile divisions in families and communities. As salt gives flavor, we are challenged to bring hope, meaning, and encouragement to people who are discouraged, lonely, or struggling.

2) We need to be the light of the world

Christians are called to receive the light of Christ and radiate it through love, kindness, mercy, forgiveness, humble service, and respect for all people, regardless of background or belief. As guiding lights, we are to help others find the right path in moments of confusion and moral darkness. As warning lights, we are to offer timely and loving correction when we see danger approaching. As warming lights, we are to soften cold hearts with compassion, patience, and sincere care.

In being salt and light, we do not draw attention to ourselves. Rather, we allow others, through our good works, to give glory to God who is the source of all light and life. God bless you.