"PASS THE SALT and
TURN ON THE LIGHT"

Jesus said in the sermon on the mount, "You (His disciples) are the salt of the earth; but if the salt loses its flavor, how shall it be seasoned? It is then good for nothing but to be thrown out and trampled underfoot by men. "You (His disciples) are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lamp stand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven" (Matthew 5:13-16).

Passing the salt and turning on the light are quite common actions. We usually do both without giving it a thought. Though small and seemingly insignificant, both make a great difference. Both salt and light are indispensible commodities. Life cannot persist without salt, as salt is a necessary, basic element in all animal fluids. Likewise, we cannot live without light. Light from the sun, or other suitable substitute is necessary for both plant and animal life; and God has provided both in a great abundance.

Salt disappears a few seconds after it is sprinkled on food and yet it fulfills its purpose by enhancing the flavor of the meal. Salt makes the bland more palatable. Light does not disappear but rather does away with darkness. Matthew says, a lamp is not to be put under a basket, but on a stand so that it can do its work...to guide and illuminate.

We are called to be the salt of the earth and the light of the world. Salty Christians working behind the scenes are quiet and unseen, yet influential in revealing God's will in both word and deed. Other Christians, more like light are visible, out front teaching and leading in the way of Jesus. Either way, both are salt and light.

Whether by nature you are more like salt or light, the purpose is the same...to praise our Father in heaven! When salt enhances food, the food is praised, not the salt. When a light is turned on it is that which is revealed that is noticed, not the light. Our purpose is to praise and glorify God, not ourselves.