Matthew 5:13-16 (The Message): Salt & Light
“Let me tell you why you are here. You’re here to be salt-seasoning that brings out the God-flavors of this earth. If you lose your saltiness, how will people taste godliness? You’ve lost your usefulness and will end up in the garbage.
Here’s another way to put it: You’re here to be light, bringing out the God-colors in the world. God is not a secret to be kept. We’re going public with this, as public as a city on a hill. If I make you light-bearers, you don’t think I’m going to hide you under a bucket, do you? I’m putting you on a light stand. Now that I’ve put you there on a hilltop, on a light stand—shine! Keep open house; be generous with your lives. By opening up to others, you’ll prompt people to open up with God, this generous Father in heaven.”
“Let me tell you why you are here…” (Matthew 5:13, The Message). Isn’t that a bold and beautiful beginning? Our purpose on this earth is simple and yet so profound—our lives are meant to do two things: help others taste and see that the Lord is good and be a light in the world.
The God Flavors of This World
Like salt, we are here to enhance the world with God’s goodness. Salt isn’t just a seasoning—it’s a preserver. In the same way, we are called to preserve the goodness of God in this world. Psalm 34:8 invites us to “taste and see that the Lord is good,” and that’s the flavor we bring—joy, mercy, kindness. When we share these things, we give the world a taste of God’s love.
The God Colors of This World
And what about light? Light cuts through darkness, guiding and illuminating the path ahead. Psalm 119:105 tells us that God’s Word is a lamp to our feet and a light to our path. When we live according to His Word, we become that light—pointing others toward hope, grace, and truth. Jesus says in Matthew 5:14, “You’re here to be light, bringing out the God-colors in the world.”
Our light is meant to shine brightly, not hidden or dimmed. We’re on display, like a light on a stand set atop a hill. The world is watching, and we must be intentional about reflecting God’s truth in our words, our actions, and our character.
So, this week, let’s go out into the world with purpose. Be the salt that preserves and flavors, and be the light that shines brightly in a world that desperately needs guidance and hope.
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