Jesus said, “You are the light of the world.”

What does that mean exactly, to be the light of the world?

I think a lot of us would answer, “Shine bright, like Jesus.”

And, yes, that’s true…but give me more.

I’ll probably then get, “Be a good person.”

That is my least favorite answer. I can’t stand the “be a good person” answer.

I think that being the light of the world means this:

Be the kind of person that when people meet you, they can see their value and dignity reflected in your eyes.

And that doesn’t mean just going along with anything and everything.

We treat people with dignity when we don’t lie to them or go along with the lies they tell themselves.

We treat people with dignity when we remind them that they were made for more than base pleasures rather than encouraging them in it or ignoring their descent into sin.

We treat people with dignity when we give people an ear to share their fears and struggles.

We treat people with dignity when we don’t purposely give them opportunities to destroy themselves by calling it freedom: e.g. pornography, drug use, homeless encampments, etc.

We treat people with dignity by being people that are trustworthy and lead lives of integrity. To live otherwise, is to be selfish and not care about others.

And, of course, to perform “good deeds and glorify your Heavenly Father.” Those would be the corporal and spiritual works of mercy.

In these ways, Catholic Pilgrims, we can bring the light of Christ into the dark places where it is most needed.

Have a blessed Sunday.