Fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time – Sr. Eileen Burns, SNDdeN February 8, 2026 Matthew 5: 13-16 In Matt 5: 13 Jesus said to his disciples: “You are the salt of the earth. But if salt loses its taste, how can it be seasoned? It is no longer good for anything but to be thrown out and trampled underfoot.” Jesus observation and parable comes right after the Beatitudes in Matthew’s gospel signaling that it is important advice. Salt is necessary in our lives. It is created when sodium and chloride bond together. The two separate chemicals create a new thing . Ask yourself: Who are those people, places and events that I bond to and that nourish me? How do I nourish others? How does God’s bond with me and nourish me? Artificial Intelligence says “Impure, older forms of salt (like those used historically) would physically wash away the salt component, leaving behind dirt and minerals, making the residue flavorless.” No wonder Jesus says that when that happens, it should be thrown away and stepped on! Who wants to add dirt and leftover minerals to food that should nourish us? How does God help us to choose to be in healthy […]