To be in the world but not of the world is what the scripture says that we should be. Yes, we are inevitably living in and working in the same world as is everyone else, but as Christians, we are called to be different. Which in and of itself then raises the question, are you affecting those around you or are they infecting you? We as Catholics should feel a check in our spirit when entering into certain conversations and situations, and if you don’t, its time for you to check on your spiritual state of affairs and quickly.

We are called to be different and dramatically so, in fact, the scripture says that we are the light of the world. I remember seeing a picture of one of the early world’s fairs, where Thomas Edison had been contracted to illuminate it with his new AC powered lights. The world at this point in time was predominantly in darkness with the exception being candlelight and oil lamps. People flocked by the millions to both see and be bathed by this new found source of light.

I want you to visualize the next person that you are speaking to, as being concealed by a black cloak, in other words, you cannot see them, you can only hear their words. As the conversation continues with this unseen entity, now ask yourself, is this conversation leading me closer to God or is it infecting my spirit in some way shape or form that will lead me away from God. We are called to have a positive effect on those around us, while at the same time being ever vigilant not to allow the world to infect us.

The scripture says that our body is the temple of the Holy Spirit, which means that He is partaking in whatever you are partaking in be it visual or auditory. I have said it before and I will say it again, there are situations in life where the only reason Christ would have been there would be to save the lost. He is not entertained by what you consider to be entertainment. Your spirit is being tainted on a daily basis by this worlds affections and it needs to end. Salt is a spice, and it is used to enhance the flavor of food. We are said to be the salt of the world, and our lives are to enhance an otherwise tasteless society in which we live.

But, the scripture says, if the salt has lost its flavor, what is it good for? Now ask yourself, am I being a light of Christ’s presence and power to anyone around me? Or, am I hiding the light which Christ has given me with the things and teachings of this world? To be continued…