Salt and Light

 By Andrea Merrell

You are the salt of the earth … You are the light of the world.

Matthew 5:13 & 16a

Jesus called us both salt and light, but what exactly does that mean?

These two basic elements give us practical examples of how we are to serve the Lord and share His presence with those around us.

My grandfather used to say, “Salt brings out the hidden flavors.” This is what the Message translation says (Matthew 5:13):

You’re here to be salt-seasoning that brings out the God-flavors of this earth. If you lose your saltiness, how will people taste godliness?

Light, on the other hand, dispels the darkness. It illuminates the truth and reveals God to a dark and broken world. According to the Message (Matthew 5:14-15):

You’re here to be light, bringing out the God-colors in the world. God is not a secret to be kept … I’m putting you on a lampstand … Shine!

A song by the Williamsons, “Shake the Salt, Shine the Light,” is a fun reminder of how we are to live. I encourage you to take a moment and listen carefully to the simple but powerful words. (See link below.)

Our world is in chaos. Are you shaking the salt and letting your light shine?

 

 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iZXeIY3kX2k

Photo by Lachlan on Unsplash.com

Christian, How Recognizable Are You?

By Andrea Merrell

There are only a few cars I can recognize at first glance: a Mini Cooper, Dodge Caravan, VW Beetle, and a Hummer. Not a very impressive list, I know.

Cars have changed so much over the years, it’s difficult to tell one from the other. Even my Ford Escape is hard to distinguish from a Honda CR-V. The vehicles I recognize immediately are distinctive and stand out from the rest.

It’s the same with Christians. Some are distinctive and stand out in a crowd. There’s no mistaking their close relationship with the Lord because His love shines through.

Unfortunately, there are others who blend in so well with the world around them, it’s difficult to know what—and if—they believe.

We are called to be salt and light. We are peculiar people, givers, ambassadors, servants, and His hands extended. There should never be a question about our authenticity or to Whom we belong.

My prayer is to always be recognizable as a follower of Christ.

What about you? Are you a vehicle of His love, mercy, and grace?

(Photo courtesy of FreeDigitalPhotos.net/sattva/photostock.)

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