Jesus says, “You are the salt of the earth.” What does this mean? In Jesus’ time, salt was essential. It preserved food, preventing decay. It added flavor. It enhanced its taste.
We are called to preserve influence in a world that is decaying morally and spiritually. We stand for truth, righteousness, and integrity. We are called to add flavor to the lives of those around — grace, compassion, joy, hope, love, and encouragement to those who are hurting or lost. But, we live in a world full of dilution. So many have lost their distinctiveness. If we lose our salt, we become worthless.
Jesus also says, “You are the light of the world.” Light dispels darkness, reveals truth, and guides the way. We are called to bring hope, healing, and restoration. We are called to reveal the truth of God’s love and grace.
“You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its taste, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot. 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 in heaven.” (Matthew 5:13–16)
In what ways am I covering my light? By not sharing my full self, those scary parts of me, I am so ashamed of. I am scared they won’t like me, that they might think my ways of thinking are weird and wrong. I’ve tried for so long to be someone everyone else wanted. I have tried so hard to be like them. But, I’m not. I’m not at all. It is living in fear. But, remember, these are the ways of the world.
We are more than that — our inherent value transcends the physical realm, imbued with a unique and powerful potential. There is undeniable beauty in my way of thinking. My perspective is distinct. It may be perceived as ‘weird,’ but I choose to see it as refreshingly unique, beautiful, and curious. It is, perhaps, enigmatic and extraordinary. I believe it can even be healing.
How can I be the light in the darkness? I can encourage people to share their stories — I can share my stories. Because stories have the power to heal, to encourage, spark creative thought, foster compassion and love, and change the world for the better.
Therefore, I release the burden of the world’s expectations, and choose to live as salt and light. May we all be so bold as to live this way.
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