I am SALT and LIGHT

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“You are the salt of the earth, but if salt has lost its taste, how shall its saltiness be restored? It is no longer good for anything except to be thrown out and trampled under people's feet."

“You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven."

~Matthew 5:13-16~ 

Jesus declares these words over the crowd who had gathered to hear Him speak on the side of a mountain one day - now known as The Sermon on the Mount.

But what does this mean - "You are the salt of the earth and the light of the world?"

Salt of the Earth:

To His audience, salt would have been useful for two very important reasons.

• to provide a savory flavor
• to preserve what will decay

When Jesus describes these people as salt, they understand that they are meant to add flavor to the world around them and also preserve what is decaying from the corruption that has overwhelmed the world.  They are intended to stand out and do good.

Light of the World:

Jesus came as a "light for the nations" (Isaiah 49:6).  He says as much when he proclaims, "I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life" (John 8:12).

Jesus is planting the idea that those who follow The Light (Jesus) will BE the light in the dark world.

Why does this define us?  Why does this matter?

Jesus is gently reinforcing the fact that each and every person who chooses to follow Him has a purpose.  There was a greater plan for each one - beyond just being another heartbeat on the earth.

And the same is true for us today.

Our purpose is still to be Salt and Light.  God's plan for us is to stand out and add flavor to our communities.  We are to help preserve what is good and prevent the decay of the world around us.  We are to be the light in the darkness - sharing Jesus with those in our paths.

So how is it going?  How salty are you?  Are you bringing light into the world?  Do you believe that God has a purpose and a plan for you?  Do you understand that He always sees beyond your pain and knows your potential.  Seek what His purpose for you is - and do it!!!

Be salt.

Be light.

That is who you are.