Matthew 5:13-16 ¹³ “You are the salt of the earth; but if salt has lost its taste, how shall its saltness be restored? It is no longer good for anything except to be thrown out and trodden under foot by men. ¹⁴ “You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hid. ¹⁵ Nor do men light a lamp and put it under a bushel, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. ¹⁶ Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.

Salt of the earth. What are you telling me today about these scripture passages – first Elijah asking the poor widow to bring him water and bake a little cake, then in the gospel of salt to be thrown out when it loses it’s flavor. As a cook – baker – I know how important salt is to recipes. When I lost my sense of taste awhile back, salt was one thing I could still distinguish. So I craved it.

So too I crave you my Lord. I crave being your servant, being joyful in you and all your works. I never want to be lukewarm again. I know many who are lukewarm – who prefer to tell you how they will be saved. Their actions do not match your commands; they have modified them to fit their needs. O Lord many do seek you but in limited ways. It must be convenient, timely, not overbearing and certainly not apostolic. Why is it in many social circles that we can openly talk about politics but religion – faith – love for you is awkward and uncomfortable ?

I pray O Lord that I never shy away from speaking out for you, with you and in you. I pray that people will always see you in me first. That my countenance reflects that of yours, my heart be tender, loving, giving. I know this may bring a separation between me and others – I already feel and know it. So I will love them from afar, praying the gap can be lessened by my prayer for renewal in faith. I miss them; I am saddened as I am sure you are too. But I will not lose hope, for your mercy endures forever. Your mercy can right the wrong; it can provide the food such as you provided for Elijah, the widow and her son. Do not be afraid, Elijah said to the widow. She did as he asked, and they all ate for a year. Let me not be afraid to flavor the world with the salt of truth you have shared with all mankind. Help me to endure the difficult times when I believe my salt has become flavorless. Let me always remember you will provide, as you said you would.

Adding now after hearing Mass and a good homily, how I forgot to even think of how this poor widow must have felt – you want me to do what? She had to trust there would be enough oil and flour. Elijah had to trust God was speaking and what He was saying would turn out well. I lack trust in you Father, because if I didn’t I wouldn’t be so fickle, fearful of the world, of decisions, of change. I know I must trust you more, surrender… surrender… surrender. I give it all to you.

Prayer 609