As we draw closer to the holy season of Lent, today’s Sunday readings offer us a timely and challenging reminder of what it truly means to live our faith. They invite us to move beyond outward religious practices and to rediscover the heart of Christian living: justice, compassion, humility, and witness.
In the first reading from the prophet Isaiah, God speaks very clearly about fasting. He tells us that fasting is not simply about giving up food or observing religious rituals. The fasting that pleases God is one that transforms our relationships—with God and with one another. Isaiah reminds us that true fasting means loosening the bonds of injustice, sharing our bread with the hungry, and caring for the poor and the oppressed. When our faith becomes concrete in love and service, God promises, “Your light shall break forth like the dawn.”
The Catechism of the Catholic Church echoes this teaching when it says:
“Interior repentance is a radical reorientation of our whole life, a return, a conversion to God with all our heart” (CCC 1431).
Saint Paul, in the second reading, reminds us that the power of the Gospel does not come from human wisdom or impressive words. He proclaims Christ crucified in weakness and humility, trusting that faith rests on God’s power, not human strength. This is reassuring for all of us. We may feel inadequate or unworthy, but God works powerfully through humble and sincere hearts.
In the Gospel, Jesus calls us the salt of the earth and the light of the world. These are not optional titles; they are our Christian identity. The Second Vatican Council teaches: “The laity are called by God to exercise their apostolate in the world like leaven” (Lumen Gentium, 31). Our faith is meant to be lived and seen—in our homes, workplaces, and communities.
Pope Francis often said that faith must be lived in action. He says: “A faith that does not bear fruit in works of charity is not faith” (Evangelii Gaudium, 193).
Let us ask ourselves: Does my prayer make me more loving? Does my fasting make me more compassionate? Does my faith bring light to others?
May this coming Lenten season help us become true salt and light, so that through our lives, others may come to know and glorify God.
