You Are The Salt And Light Of The World

Did you know that we represent the flavor and brightness that the world craves?

Imagine yourself as the spark that brings about change and the zest that makes life more exciting! Each of us has an incredible ability to inspire, delight, and add flavor to those around us. You might be wondering what that actually means.

Salt served as much more than just a condiment in ancient times. This precious mineral was prized not only for its ability to enhance flavor but also for its medicinal qualities. It was a natural antiseptic that effectively cleaned wounds and ward off harmful bacteria, helping to prevent infections. In hot regions where food spoiled quickly, salt became essential for preservation, extending the shelf life of perishables and ensuring people had food during difficult times.

The significance of salt in ancient cultures becomes quite clear when we consider Jesus’ metaphor of calling us the “salt of the Earth.” Just as salt keeps food from spoiling and heals wounds, we are meant to have a transforming and restorative impact on the world around us. Our lives should not only nourish and sustain, but also combat moral and spiritual decay by instilling hope and vigor in those we encounter.

Scripture reminds us of this critical role through Jesus’ words, warning His disciples of the dangers of losing their “saltiness.” At that time, salt was collected from the shores of the Dead Sea, which was made up of rocks with a mix of various minerals in them. Though it appeared to be pure salt, it often lacked essential life-giving properties, resembling a chalky residue. True salt would dissolve over time, leaving behind a tasteless residue that should be thrown away. —nothing more than a substance to be tossed aside.

This illustration encourages us to embrace our identity as “salt” in the world, bringing life and purpose with every step we take.

We are typically disappointed when something that looks like salt fails to provide its essential benefits. This striking comparison illustrates why Jesus encourages us to preserve our unique identity and vitality.  He calls us to nurture a thriving relationship with Him while faithfully following His teachings.

So, what role does the Church play in fulfilling Jesus’ Great Commission?

The Church is seen as a dynamic force that gives meaning and purpose to all facets of life and society.  Its mission is to confront and challenge the harmful influences of sin and evil in order to transform the world into a nurturing environment where people can genuinely flourish rather than just survive.

Just like a few grains of salt can turn the simplest dish into a gourmet meal, you and I have the incredible ability to enrich every moment of life with flavor and texture. We shine like a beacon of light, radiating warmth and illuminating the darkest corners of life, motivating those around us with our positivity and brilliance. Our presence can transform the ordinary into something extraordinary, encouraging others to recognize and appreciate the beauty around them.

Jesus described the Church as both salt and light, two things that are necessary for human well-being. Imagine a world stripped of these essential elements. In Screen Door, Rich Mullins (1987) once sang an inspirational song that really struck a deep chord with me:  “Faith without works is like a song you can’t sing.” This beautifully illustrates the way in which we are supposed to influence our communities. Similar to a bird that sings because it has a song inside of it, we too have a mission to accomplish. In order to carry out this sacred mission, it’s important that we maintain our distinctiveness.

A friend once quoted from Brian Fikkert and Steve Corbett’s book When Helping Hurts (2009): “We cannot hope for the transformation of people without the involvement of the local church and the verbal proclamation of the gospel that has been entrusted to it.” This serves as a vital reminder of the importance of our divine calling. Jesus emphasizes the role of the Church as the vessel for God’s gifts, highlighting that without it, true life remains hopelessly out of reach. In this light, we are encouraged to embrace our role, embodying the true meaning of what it is to be “salt” in the world, instilling life and purpose in every step we take.

Our presence should provide a preserving effect, much like salt acts as a preservative to prevent spoilage. We are supposed to be a remedy—a healing presence—for the restless souls we come into contact with; we have the ability to radiate the flavor of Christ in every corner we occupy. Those around us should feel an unmistakable thirst for Who we represent. When we truly reflect the essence of Jesus in our lives, He affirms that we are the salt of the earth and the light of the world—a shining city perched on a hill that cannot be hidden.

Don’t light a lamp just to hide it under a bowl; let your light shine brightly so others can see your good works and, in turn, glorify your Father in heaven.

People around us should be drawn closer to God by catching a glimpse of Jesus in us through our daily interactions and deeds. This is both the challenge and the calling that He sets before us. It’s important to remember that while salt quietly exerts its influence, light shines brightly for all to see.

Reflection:

1. When Jesus refers to us as the salt and light of the world, how does that make you feel?
2. Do others perceive Jesus’ love and compassion in you, even if they are unaware that you are a disciple of Christ?
3. In what meaningful ways can you start living out Jesus’ teaching that “you are the salt of the Earth and the light of this world”?

Prayer:

Father, we thank You for Your steadfast faithfulness, boundless love, and abundant grace. We are grateful for the reminder of our calling to be salt and light in this decaying world. Lord, guide us to reflect Jesus in our daily actions and draw others closer to You. Through the Holy Spirit, remind us to let Your light shine brightly in our words and actions, so that everyone we encounter sees not us, but Jesus. In His name, we give You praise. Amen.

Reference:

Fikkert, B., and Corbett, S. (2009). When Helping Hurts. Moody Publishers.

Almodovar, C (2025). [Waikiki beach]. [Photograph]. Personal collection.

Mullins, R. (1987). Screen Door [Video]. YouTube. https://youtu.be/hmhN5X4dxYM?si=5Aj8uyogpBlzwexo//

Scripture quotations adapted from The Holy Bible, New International Version, NIV. Copyright 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.[o