Hello, Reader!
This Sunday, the 5th Sunday after the Epiphany, we will explore what it means to be salt and light in the world, with Rev. Shanley-Roberts officiating at 9 am for the Holy Eucharist (Rite II).
Reflection on the Readings for the 5th Sunday after the Epiphany 2026
Join us as we explore what it means to be salt and light!
Old Testament – Isaiah 58:1-9a, (9b-12)
Isaiah delivers a strong rebuke to those who engage in outward religious practices while neglecting justice and compassion. They fast and seek God, yet on their fast days they serve their own interests, oppress workers, and quarrel. God asks pointedly: “Is this the fast I choose? Merely bowing the head and wearing sackcloth?” No, the fast God desires is to break the bonds of injustice, free the oppressed, share bread with the hungry, shelter the homeless, and clothe the naked. When we live this way, Isaiah promises that our light will break forth like the dawn, and God will respond when we call, saying, “Here I am.”
Psalm 112:1-9, (10)
This psalm celebrates those who fear the Lord and delight in His commandments. Light shines in the darkness for the upright, who are merciful and compassionate. They lend generously, manage their affairs justly, and remain unshaken by evil rumors because their hearts trust in the Lord. They give freely to the poor, and their righteousness endures forever. The psalm links devotion to God with ethical living—those who truly fear the Lord demonstrate it through generosity, justice, and compassion.
Epistle – 1 Corinthians 2:1-12, (13-16)
Paul reflects on his approach to ministry in Corinth. He came not with eloquent wisdom but in weakness, fear, and trembling, proclaiming only Jesus Christ crucified. His message relied on the power of the Spirit so that their faith would rest on God’s power rather than human wisdom. Among mature believers, Paul speaks of God’s hidden wisdom—not worldly but divine, the kind the rulers of this age did not understand. God has revealed through the Spirit things beyond human comprehension, gifts prepared for those who love Him.
Gospel – Matthew 5:13-20
Jesus describes the identity and mission of his disciples: “You are the salt of the earth” and “You are the light of the world.” Salt that loses its flavor is worthless, and light is not meant to be hidden. Disciples are called to let their light shine through good works that lead others to God. Jesus clarifies that he has not come to abolish the Law and the Prophets but to fulfill them. He challenges his followers to a righteousness that surpasses that of the scribes and Pharisees.
Reflection
These readings call us to authentic faith expressed in justice and compassion. Isaiah challenges the notion that religious observance can substitute for ethical living. The psalmist praises those who generously help the poor. Paul emphasizes that God’s wisdom is revealed through the Spirit, not human eloquence. Jesus calls His disciples to be salt and light, letting their good works reflect God’s glory. As we gather for the Eucharist today, we are challenged to reflect: Does our faith produce light? Are we committed to breaking the bonds of injustice and feeding the hungry? The fast God chooses, the light God ignites, and the righteousness God seeks all flow from hearts transformed by the Spirit and expressed in love for our neighbors.
You can read the full reflection and Scripture texts on today's services webpage.
The podcast of today's service will be available later today on your favorite podcast platform, or you can listen here.
If you feel inspired to pray for others, we encourage you to include those on our prayer list in your prayers to help strengthen our community.
If you need inspiration for prayer, remember the Book of Common Prayer or these prayers to guide your prayer journey.
Don’t forget to review this week's announcements and the church calendar.
Blessings, and have a great week!
