St. Bede-St. Denis Parish Home

Dear brothers and sisters,

 

When I taught philosophy to my high school classmates, I heard the same question so many times that when an article titled "What is the purpose of philosophy?" fell into my hands, I didn’t hesitate to use it for my first day of class. Behind this demand that things must serve a purpose, very different attitudes can be hidden, ranging from the purest practical sense of life to a utilitarian mentality in which only what leads to success or brings personal benefit is truly worthwhile.

 

This Sunday’s Gospel reminds us that our lives will cease to be meaningful if, like salt that loses its flavor, we lose the ability to add flavor to the lives of others. Many different reasons can lead us to lose our zest for life or to hide and conceal the light we are called to radiate. It could be the temptation of conformity that infects us with mediocrity, or unresolved weariness and wounds that generate disaffection, undermine enthusiasm, and extinguish joy. The Gospel invites us to remember that our lives "serve a purpose" insofar as we "serve" others, giving light and flavor to those around us. Each of us, in our own situation, can reflect and pray today about what we can do to continue shining and adding flavor to life. Perhaps very small things are enough, such as listening, smiling, doing something thoughtful for someone who needs it, defusing conflicts, refraining from speaking ill of others, being available, or being able to take the first step.

 

In this society where we demand usefulness and efficiency at the click of a button, and where the stress of what we have to do often prevents us from being present for and caring for others, we are challenged to heed Jesus’ invitation to be light and salt: to make our lives meaningful and truly worthwhile.

 

Happy Sunday!

 

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