Today, the Lord encourages us not to lose focus, but rather to remain fixed on the mission that he has entrusted to us. You are salt for the earth ... you are light for the world (Mt 5: 13-14). These words sounded strange to the disciples when he first offered them, and they still ring strangely in our ears until we awaken to the depth of love that our God has for us. Strengthened by this love, we become aware of the light he shines upon us; when we speak from the place of faith and truth, it is Jesus who speaks through us, seasoning our words with his words.
In order for this to happen, Jesus needs us to say yes; even though we ourselves might feel at times that we do not have the energy to respond, he asks us to give of ourselves. The example of the widow of Zarephath provides inspiration for us today. When Elijah arrived at that place, he found a widow who was gathering sticks. He called out to her: 'Please bring me a small cupful of water to drink' (1 K 17: 10). This poor woman was in a state of desperation. When Elijah asked her to provide a small morsel of bread, she responded: As the Lord your God lives, I have nothing baked; there is only a handful of flour in my jar and a little oil in my jug. Just now I was collecting a few sticks, to go in and prepare something for myself and my son; when we have eaten it, we shall die (1 K 17: 12). Yet, because she agreed to prepare a cake of bread for Elijah before the food that she and her son were to receive, she was rewarded.
As difficult as it might be at times to look to the needs of others rather than to our own, the Lord calls us to be outward focused. If we choose to concentrate our efforts on serving others first, there will always be enough energy, enough love, enough of whatever we need.
Have a great day.
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