How do we determine who gets the credit for impressive results or accomplishments? When an athlete performs at an extraordinary level, commentators talk about the long hours of practice that went into honing their skills. When an employee produces superior results, hopefully it is recognized and praised in their organization, and it is credited to their dedication and talent. When children behave notably well, their parents are praised for raising them right and teaching them discipline and other important habits.
In the Gospel today, Jesus encourages His followers to be the salt and light of the earth and to be so demonstrably on fire that people will see their works and glorify God, not the individuals themselves, because of it. It seems to me that this is a rare thing indeed. When someone impresses us, we go out of our way to learn the secrets of their success. What books are they reading? What habits do they maintain? What are the rules by which they live? For some reason, even in the case of successful, faith-filled individuals, we rarely glorify God at their success. People who serve the poor generously or minister to those in need often attribute their triumphs to God’s grace, but we don’t seem to believe them and instead focus on that person’s strengths, dedication, etc.
I believe that if we were to delve more deeply into what Jesus is pointing us toward this week, it would change our lives and the way we see the world around us. A deeper appreciation of God’s movement in our lives leads, almost inevitably, to conversion of heart and even more generous service because of our gratitude to the one who sustains us in everything. Think of how different it would be if, when we see someone lead a ministry well, or genuinely care for someone in need, we didn’t think of how that person has skills and talents that we are jealous of, but rather saw the beauty of the Body of Christ in action here in this life. Part of accomplishing what Jesus asks of us, inspiring others to glorify God by our actions, lies in glorifying God ourselves when we see others doing the work of the Lord. Perhaps this week we can resolve to look for God’s hand in the work and ministry of both others and ourselves, so that as we grow more aware of God’s powerful Grace, that awareness may ripple out into our families and communities. Prayers always, Fr. McC