Jesus said, “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 underfoot” (Matthew 5:13).
The verse comes from the Sermon on the Mount after Jesus talks about people who are blessed. In other words, we are blessed to be blessings. So what does salt have to do with blessings?
Salt is used to preserve food, enhance the flavor of food and for healing. When I am sick, I crave salty foods. Properties from the Salt Sea, also known as the Dead Sea, are used for medicinal purposes.
Jesus said we are the salt of the earth, but if we lose our saltiness, we are good for nothing. Yikes! How do we stay salty? First of all, we live in a dark and sinful world where many people have lost hope. It is God’s plan for us to inspire and encourage those in despair by the way we live. I pray for opportunities to recognize people who need a smile, a hug, a listening ear or help. We don’t have to force the action. God provides the opportunities. They are everywhere when we make ourselves available.
THINK ABOUT IT
Nothing is impossible for God. The Bible is filled with sinful people who experienced redemption–liars, adulterers, murderers, robbers, thieves. Thanks be to God, they didn’t stay that way. They grew to be more like Jesus. That’s why He came to earth–to show the way. In uncertain circumstances, I think of a popular question, “What would Jesus do?” I see the fruit of the Spirit in Him: “Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law” (Galatians 5:22-23). Our world needs more of these blessings.
PRAY ABOUT IT
Holy Lord, let Jesus be born in me so I can minister to those who need your love, your peace and hope. I cannot do this without your help. I love you. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
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