“Jesus gives His disciples two beautiful images: salt and light.

He says: “You are the salt of the earth.” “You are the light of the world.”

Notice that Jesus does not say, “You should become salt” or “You should try to become light.” He says, “You are.” Through our baptism, we already share in His mission. The question is whether we are truly living it.

What Does Salt Mean?

In biblical times, salt was very valuable. It had two important purposes.

First, salt preserved food from corruption. Before refrigerators existed, salt prevented meat and fish from spoiling.

Second, salt gave flavor. It made food enjoyable and nourishing.

Therefore, when Jesus calls us the salt of the earth, He is telling us to help preserve what is good, true, and holy in society, and to bring goodness and hope wherever we go.

What Does Light Mean?

Light dispels darkness. It helps people see the right path.

When Jesus calls us the light of the world, He is asking us to reflect His light through our words, actions, and example, so that others may find their way to God.

Today, let me suggest three pastoral challenges for us Filipinos.

1. Be Salt and Light in the World of Social Media

Many people today spend hours on social media. Unfortunately, it has also become a place where lies, insults, fake news, and hatred spread rapidly.

As Christians, we cannot contribute to the darkness.

Before sharing a post, ask: Is it true? Is it helpful? Is it charitable?

The Philippines does not need more people spreading anger. It needs more people spreading truth, kindness, and wisdom.

A Christian who forwards lies loses his saltiness and dims his light.

2. Be Salt and Light Through Integrity

Many Filipinos complain about corruption in government, yet sometimes we tolerate dishonesty in our own lives.

We cannot demand honesty from leaders while practicing dishonesty ourselves.

Whether we are politicians, teachers, police officers, business owners, workers, students, priests, or parents, we must do what is right even when no one is watching.

The nation will not be transformed by one great leader. It will be transformed by millions of ordinary Filipinos who choose honesty every day.

That is how salt preserves society from corruption.

3. Be Salt and Light Through Compassion

Many people around us are carrying heavy burdens: families struggling with poverty, victims of disasters, the sick, the elderly, and those suffering from loneliness or depression.

A small act of kindness can become a great light in someone’s darkness.

A listening ear, a word of encouragement, a meal shared with a hungry person, a visit to someone who feels forgotten—these are simple ways of shining Christ’s light.

Sometimes people will never read the Bible, but they will read our lives.

Final Words

My brothers and sisters, our country does not need more darkness. It does not need more hatred, dishonesty, or indifference.

Jesus is calling each one of us today:

Be salt that preserves what is good.

Be light that guides others to what is true.

And when people see our good works, may they not praise us, but, as Jesus says, “give glory to your Father in heaven.”