Preachrblog

We have two main thoughts in today’s Gospel reading.  Firstly, Jesus encourages Christians to be who they are – the salt and light of the world.     In the second, he shows his relation to the Law and the Prophets – that he came not to abolish but fulfill them.    This is all part of his famous Sermon on the Mount.  He speaks here, first of all, to his followers, those who give ear to his teaching, and then, by extension, to us Christians.    Let’s take the first section first – salt and light.  Two earthly things with which everyone is familiar.  Two very different parts of creation – but both with something in common – they have a purpose, a function.  They do something.     Salt, sprinkled through the food, both preserves and gives flavor.  And light, well, it lets you see.  It shows things.  Jesus says Christians are both salt and light.  But notice first how he speaks about it – he doesn’t say, “Be salt and light”  but “you are”.  That is, yo...

Jesus’ public ministry begins with his baptism in the Jordan River by John.  And  so  our Epiphany season also begins with this important event in the life of Christ.     But like John, we might have some  question  about this at first .   After all,  every Sunday School child knows Jesus is the only one without sin,  and also  that baptism washes away our sins .   So  John objected, “I need to be baptized by YOU Jesus .   I’m  the sinner here, not you!”  And Jesus’ response  doesn’t  deny that.   But he says this, “Let it be so now.”  In other words, just this once .   Normally,  you’re  right, John .   I am the  Savior  and you are the sinner .   Baptism comes  from me,  to you .   I am the one to give and offer the forgiveness of sins .   And yes,  you’re   right,  I ...