What do you take for granted? Every time I reflect on this question, I discover new ways in which the Lord has blessed me and others. As the Beatitudes remind us, we are privileged to share in the ministry of Jesus, who is the ultimate model and example of a priest, prophet, and king.

God’s creation is truly marvelous. The more we study the world and its intricate complexities, the more we appreciate the beauty it reflects, along with the good we can achieve. In doing so, we can clearly see God’s hand at work. God has organized all of creation for our benefit; the world around us is filled with His gifts.

In his Sermon on the Mount, Jesus describes us as blessings from the Lord: Salt and Light. We are part of this wonderful world, which can reflect the truth, beauty, and goodness of our God. Created in His image and likeness, we have the capacity to participate in God’s magnificent work of creation. Salt and Light are essential elements of our world; salt preserves and enhances flavor, while light provides new sight. We preserve creation, infused with the grace of our Creator, and help others recognize God’s glory in our midst.

This calling to be salt and light takes flesh in the daily witness of faith. So thank you for all that you are and all that you do, striving to radiate God’s grace. Let’s keep listening to the call to engage in works of mercy as the prophet Isaiah reminds us today: “Share your bread with the hungry, shelter the oppressed and the homeless; clothe the naked when you see them, and do not turn your back on your own.” Thank you for the witness you provide as you engage in the works of mercy: those who lead and participate in our parish outreach and SALT ministries; those who share the faith as catechists and teachers; those who lead ministries and small groups for adults, young adults, and youth; those who accompany others in the journey of faith; those who commit to prayer and intercession for our parish; those who engage in building a culture of life and bring hope to our wider community; and those who day in and day out perform small acts of great love for the Lord’s sake that may often go unnoticed and unacknowledged. Thank you.

Your generosity extends beyond time and talent to include your treasure as well. Thank you to the many who contribute to our parish through offertory, through our building fund, through our poor box, through our second collections, and through the Annual Appeal for Catholic Ministries. Your gifts are inspiring and God will perform miracles through our offerings. I haven’t yet checked on our progress toward the parish goal of 300 pledges or gifts from parishioners and families, but if you have not yet had the opportunity, give online at archbalt.org/mygift.

Next week, we will enter into the Season of Lent, a season not of hardships but of lasting freedom. Lent reminds us to simplify, removing the clutter and busyness of our lives for the sake of God’s order. God calls us to ensure that our day-to-day life reflects the priorities that we aspire to hold: our relationship with the Lord, with our family, and with our brothers and sisters. Enter into prayer and ask the Lord to place a plan in your heart: a plan for growth and conversion individually, as a family, and as a parish. We need to accept God’s gift of grace and cooperate with him. As you discern where God is calling you this Lent, keep in mind the traditional practices of prayer, fasting, and almsgiving. I invite you to explore all of the programs and opportunities available to deepen your Lenten journey at OLPH by visiting OLPHParish.org/lent. Let our penances and practices this Lent draw us further into communion with the Lord and strengthen our relationships with one another.