"You are the light of the world," Jesus tells his disciples in today's Gospel, exhorting them to shine that light for everyone to see. Jesus himself is the light who shone through the darkness form the very moment he was born. Now he challenges his disciples to be that light ̶ the light of Christ ̶ for others. We are given that same challenge. May we be conscious of receiving the Lord today in the word and the Eucharist, so that we may go forth to shine the light of Christ, transforming the darkness around us. So, dear friends you have much to ponder in today's Scriptures. We are all called to be salt of the earth and light of the world. Each week you stand before us as beacons of hope for our Church, for in you we see a future filled with hope. As you go forth, remember to heed the call of the prophet Isaiah by sharing with the poor. Then will your light grow ever brighter. We look forward to the day when, gathered with us at the sacred altar, you will share in the Eucharist. Now go in peace.