In philosophy there is a word "teleology" which speaks of the inherent purpose of an object. An example of this would be the teleology of the acorn is to become an oak tree. What is the teleology of the missionary disciple? Jesus tells us, in the gospel, that the teleology of his disciples is to be "salt of the earth" and "light for the world." If we fail to be the former we are: "no longer good for anything" (Mtt 5: 13) and if we fail to be the latter, we are illogical: "No one after lighting a lamp puts it under the bushel basket." (Mtt 5: 15) Today can I ask myself how I am salt of the earth and light for the world? I am fulfilling my purpose as a missionary disciple and realizing my vocation given me in baptism. Let us all be alert to the challenge to put the gospel into practice and bring the joy of the gospel to those whom I meet.
