Jesus used illustrations such as being salt and light in the world to remind us that we’re not to become Christians and just keep it to ourselves. A small amount of salt can make a big difference to your favorite dish. But, if that salt sits on a shelf or gets diluted by water, it loses its ability to make a difference to your meal. He said it’s like turning on a light and hiding it under a basket! Sure, the light’s still shining, but unless you’re under that basket with it, it’s not doing anyone any good! Jesus said we’re like that salt and light, and by sharing the good news about Him and His salvation, we can make a difference in someone’s life. But, if we keep it to ourselves, then we’re of no help to our friends or to building God’s kingdom.
He also gave us instructions on our relationships with those around us. Jesus reminded us that it’s easy to love people who love us. But the way to show the world our love for Christ is to love our enemies. Wait! Did you read that right? Love our enemies? Yes, that’s right. Jesus said that we should love and pray for people who treat us wrongly. That can be hard to do but if you pray for those people, God will help you love them, just as He loves you.
Confession time. It’s Monday. It’s morning. Not my favorite day and not my favorite time! But right now, I’m challenging myself today to be salt and light to the world. I’m going intentionally look for ways to show acts of kindness to those around me. Want to join me?
Nice article, Klista! It is so hard to love our enemies. I think sometimes we they are only our enemies because we don’t really know them or understand them (and vice versa). My experience has taught me that sometimes all I have to do is ask them about what is going on with them or their family. It seems like we always find some common ground. We can all build on that!
Agree! Thanks so much!