We are the salt of the earth

February 6, 2020
Today’s devotion is based on Matthew 5:13-16. Jesus is talking, "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."

To say, "You are the salt of the earth," is to place a unique value on your life. You're essential. Salt was a treasured mineral for thousands of years well before Jesus hit the scene. Used by the Egyptians and traded throughout the ancient Mediterranean world, it's an essential ingredient in the diets of both humans and animals.

And it's what we are to be in the lives of others. As followers of Jesus, we can and should be vital, necessary, and beneficial to those in our orbit. But like salt, our impact may not always be immediately obvious. It's the little things that can make a big difference—the patience we show a child or the time we take to listen to a friend who's got a problem.

We have a role to play in God's kingdom on earth. He has saved us by grace through faith in Christ's triumphant victory over the powers of darkness; he now empowers us to share his Gospel freely. He knows this commission is a challenge, but he gives us the grace to be indispensable—salty and bright for Christ.

Please pray with me the prayer for today: Heavenly Father, thank you for giving us the grace necessary to be Your people in the world. In Jesus' Name. Amen.