Seasoning and Shining

A vision from Jesus for all his true disciples.

Matthew 5:13-16, The Message

Let me tell you why you are here. 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? You’ve lost your usefulness and will end up in the garbage.

“Here’s another way to put it: You’re here to be light, bringing out the God-colors in the world. God is not a secret to be kept. We’re going public with this, as public as a city on a hill. If I make you light-bearers, you don’t think I’m going to hide you under a bucket, do you? I’m putting you on a light stand. Now that I’ve put you there on a hilltop, on a light stand—shine! Keep open house; be generous with your lives. By opening up to others, you’ll prompt people to open up with God, this generous Father in heaven.

How does this bold statement, from Jesus, about who we are in Jesus, challenge us today?

Think of the land where God has shaken you out.
Consider the small corner of the cosmos where God has set you on a stand.

How will you — in Jesus, following Jesus, obeying Jesus, as an apprentice of Jesus — be salt and light for those around you, who are suffering from decay and overwhelmed with darkness?