“You are the salt of the earth…
You are the light of the world…” (Matthew 5:13-14)
Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ,
Jesus used what was common to everyday life in order to explain to his followers who they were in God’s eyes. Here, in the midst of his Sermon on the Mount, Jesus tells them that they salt: that they provide flavor and that they sustain and preserve; while also light: that they illuminate the way and reveal the truth. Even a little salt goes a long way and lasts a long time. Even a tiny flame can be shared and passed along to bring light to others.
I read these words from Jesus as affirmation: they describe what can already be seen and felt now: that members of the Body of Christ season the world around them through their good deeds; that they work to build up and maintain vital relationships with God and one another; that they spread hope and peace and joy as a reflection of God’s love.
I would like to echo the words of Jesus and affirm what you – the members and friends of Valley Presbyterian – already do to be salt and light. I believe that we should celebrate gifts put to good use; the compassion that is shown; and the love that is shared. Perfectly? Always? No. But what Jesus saw, I see as well.
But I would also like to hear it from you. So, please take a moment this week to think of and share with me where you see the Body of Christ and its members being salt and light. In what ways is life made more savory and lasting for others? How is God’s love for the world being better illuminated?
You can write a note and pass it along; you can give me a call on the phone; you can respond by email or on Facebook, but please let me know – so that through me – we all might better know and be more aware – who is salt? where is light?
Blessings to you for what you do, and who you are, and whose you are.
In Christ,
Pastor John
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