by Fr. Gregory-David Jones, O.S.B.

     With the Winter Olympics starting soon, we can all relate to watching athletes that inspire us.  The scene is virtually universal in which an athlete exerts himself or herself to win an event.  Before, during and after the event, the coach is virtually as much a part of the competition as the athlete.  The coach knows the performer’s capabilities; oftentimes the expectations go beyond the athlete’s perceived capabilities.  A good athlete will listen to the coach’s encouragements and even demands, even when his body and mind tell him otherwise. 

     Jesus is our ultimate coach in our battle in the competition of light verses darkness.  Like a coach our Lord knows our capabilities and our potential.  Jesus is the “light of the world” and his words are not mere aspirations or commands – they are truth and prophecy! 

     When Jesus said, “You are the salt of the earth” he is making a firm proclamation about our value and importance in the world.  He does not say, “You are like salt for the earth” as if it were a choice that we can take or leave, but a way of thinking and living that is a compulsory aspect of our baptismal vocation.  “You are the light of the world” are words that also indicate the confidence that the Lord has in us to carry on his ministry of proclaiming and living our identity as the Body of Christ.  Being members of His Body means above all that Jesus is always with us to give what we need to shine the ray of His Divine Love at all times.

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