Matthew 5:13-14, Salt and Light

13 “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.

14 “You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden.15 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. 16 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.

Comments

Salt gives flavor and prevents spoilage. Christians are to give flavor to life and help prevent corruption in a fallen world. When true to our calling, we make the world a purer and more palatable place, making the earth as it is in heaven.

Like salt, light is distinctive, cleansing, important. It stands out. Disciples are to be distinctive, not to parade our virtue, but to point others to Jesus. He is the true light of the world.

Application/Reflection

Too many times Christians come across as dour, judgmental, and angry in our culture. Yet Jesus asks us to bring flavor and brightness to everyday life. How do you see yourself? How would a non-believer describe your faith?

Prayer

O God, by whom the meek are guided in judgment, and light rises up in darkness for the godly: Grant us, in all our doubts and uncertainties, the grace to ask what you would have us to do, that the Spirit of wisdom may save us from all false choices, and that in your light we may see light, and in your straight path may not stumble; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

(BCP, p. 832)