Having unveiled the practical path to deep and lasting happiness (the beatitudes), Jesus immediately tells three very short parables – stories – to explain that the task of truly living as His disciples happens by sharing generously the fruits of blessed received (Matthew 5:13-16).

SALT: Jesus expects us to add zest and flavor to the world by the way we live and interact with each  other and all those whom we encounter. Genuine Christians don’t seek their own comfort by living the beatitudes in isolation, but daring to do so in wonderful ways that make the world an ever better place.

CITY ON A HILL: This is reference to Jerusalem, the holy city, Mount Zion. In the times of the temple, there was strong belief that the dwelling of God on earth was in that temple.  So it must be with followers of Jesus, who now are the living temple of God, making visible God’s presence to all people.

LAMP: Lights give luminosity to diffuse darkness and enable clearer sight. The Christian life is to provide clarity to a world looking for direction and purpose. How? By our determined and cheerful commitment to seek God’s help to live daily the beatitudes, God touches the hearts of others who themselves can receive His good gifts.

Jesus sets the standard for Christian living. He expects us to make the world better.  The beatitudes are the mark of intentional disciples, not rigid and heartless adherence to external law. Genuine Christians take the risk and have the courage to live as salt of the earth and light of the world.  Good, loving, dedicated, joyful Christian living, is what God uses to attract others to the true and only source of real happiness: God Himself.