Be the Salt and the Light

6-25-2009

I received an email today, and it really hit home with me. To summarize the email, it basically asked the question why. In other words, why does this or that happen, and why do people do this or that. It seems people have lost focus of what we are called to do on this earth as Christ followers.

Matthew 5:13-14 gives us a great analogy of what we are called to do:

“You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled by men. You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven.”

I believe too many of us get caught up in playing God. We over analyze, judge, and label people. God doesn’t want us doing any of this. We are called to affect people in a positive way by loving them with the kindness that Christ showed the world. As a Christ follower, people should know it! I am baffled at how many people claim to know Christ, yet their actions would indicate otherwise (I’m guilty of this at times as well). We are called to be a light in the dark world. People need to know you are different by both the words you say, but most importantly by the way you live. Be the salt and light in the lives of EVERY person you come in contact with, not just your close friends and family. Every single one of you has a gift to make an impact in the world for the kingdom of God. Use the gift(s) God’s given you to make an impact. Don’t keep them to yourself, and if you aren’t sure what your gift is, ask someone that knows you. Don’t sell yourself short! Let’s light up this world!

Application:
1. Read Matthew 5:13-14
2. Does your salt have flavor?
3. Is your light shining bright?