Matt 5:13-16 NAB
Jesus said to His disciples: “You are the salt of the earth. But if salt loses its taste, with what can it be seasoned? It is no longer good for anything but to be thrown out and trampled underfoot. You are the light of the world. A city set on a mountain cannot be hidden. Nor do they light a lamp and then put it under a bushel basket; it is set on a lamp stand, where it gives light to all in the house. Just so, your light must shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your heavenly Father.” ”
Reflection
Following the beatitudes, He imprinted His teachings in the minds of His listeners with the images of salt and light. Both of these were used widely in those days. First, salt was used as a means of trade because of its value in the daily lives of the people. It provided flavouring for the food and it was also used as a preservative. Second, light was used to illuminate darkness. It was also essential as people moved about after sunset. Both of these have their God-given functions. If they no longer served their intended purpose, they were of no use. Salt had to give flavour and preservation and light to illuminate. Likewise, the disciples had to give meaning to the lives of others and illuminate their minds on the ways of God. That was their mission without which their lives would be without purpose and would lose their usefulness.
Corporate Leadership
The beatitudes were taught after Jesus healed many people. They followed Him probably because they saw the many miracles He performed. However, Jesus had a greater purpose in mind for them. They must not just receive blessings but bless others also through spreading the Word of God. Likewise, a good leader first sets the example of helping others. Colleagues and staffs will naturally be attracted to him and help him in return. However, if he is praised and well liked because he is helpful, he has not achieved much. The greater purpose in helping others is to influence them to help others so that the goodness of those who have been helped can be passed on. John Ruskin, Bristish author and poet wrote, “Every great man is always being helped by everybody; for his gift is to get good out of all things and all persons.” - XW
Family Leadership
Like in Jesus’ time, the present world is merciless with people having prejudices and hostile to people different from them. Sometimes children are faced with difficult questions posed by their own friends and peers regarding their beliefs or value system. Should they stand firm in their belief, they fear being ridiculed or ostracized. To protect themselves, they either stay neutral or go along with the majority. When these things happen parents may be disappointed with their children for not standing by the values they have been taught. Parents can prepare their children in advance about such situations and coach them on how to answer questions pertaining to their personal beliefs and value systems. However, should they encounter disinterested friends who are out to create mischief, teach them to just walk away like Jesus from such fruitless discussion. – XW
