He Saves: By Showing Mercy

Who are you? At times in life, we evaluate our identity and our calling (usually when we’re young or experiencing a mid-life crisis). What’s more problematic, is that we often don’t even think about it. Today, Jesus reminds us who we are and what we are here for. You are the salt of the earth…and the light of the world. In many ways, these two elements are building blocks for life in this world. Jesus was telling his disciples that their role in this world was integral to God’s plan of salvation. But Jesus didn’t stop there. He then told his disciples that their own righteousness had to surpass that of the Pharisees and the teachers of the law. This must have reverberated in their minds for quite some time. The Pharisees were admired for their self-discipline by most people. How could any of them surpass that? The key is found in our New Testament reading. God has made us his holy people. His righteousness shines through us in what we think, say, do, and do not do. To God be the glory!