Salty Lightness
Every now and then, the Bible will use some word-pictures or sayings to help us get a clearer picture of the truth God wants us to understand. They really do make a lot of sense, but sometimes at first glance, it's tough to figure out what they mean.
Here's one example: "You are the salt of the earth" (Matthew 5:13). Huh? What does that mean? Well, let's think about it: What do we know about salt? It's a mineral that adds flavor to things. Something bland like mashed potatoes suddenly becomes a bonanza of flavor for your taste buds when you add salt. Chances are, you like salted peanuts better than unsalted. How tasty would potato chips be without salt? Let's face it: Without salt the experience of eating would be a lot less exciting.
God wants his followers to be like salt. He wants us to be his seasoning to add flavor and excitement to the world around us. When we're added to the scene, things should be tastier (that's kinda weird, but you get the point). As Christ-followers, we should add some flavor to the world. The idea that church and Christianity are boring really doesn't make sense. God wants people to get a taste of the life he offers...a salty taste that leaves them wanting a little more.
The Bible also calls us "the light of the world" (verse 14). In a real way, people who don't know God are lost...kind of like when you're in the dark and can't find your way around. God wants us to shine brightly to our friends and family who don't know him.
When God's kids are salty, they add flavor to the world. When they let their light shine, they let others see God more clearly through them.
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Taken from "My Faith" by Kurt Johnston and Mark Oestreicher, copyright 2007, Zondervan/Youth Specialties. Used by permission.