Today’s
Scripture: Matthew 5:13
"You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its
saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for
anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot."
Today’s
Daily Devotion
Jesus is making a statement of fact here when He says, “You are the salt of
the earth!” It is not a command or wish list. It is to be reality
here and now. The implication is that we are to be what God has already made us
to be.
The context is Christians facing persecution. Their
numbers are small and they are insignificant. Salt is cheap in some places and
expensive in others. We have the saying that a man is worth his weight in salt!
Its value may vary yet it has unusual properties that far exceed its value.
This is what should happen when Christians take their
stand for God in society. That stand for good renders society infertile for the
growth of evil and ungodly influences. When England went through revival under
the ministry of the Wesley’s and George Whitefield in the 18th century, a
possible bloody revolution such as afflicted France was averted.
Usually it happens on a more moderate scale.
Conversations moderated, consciences pricked, respect for others heightened.
The
Disciples of Christ did not remain silent about their faith.
They did not hide themselves, but lived and worked in places where their
influence may be felt. So the light that was in them could then be most fully
manifested to others so that they may see the light of real Christian goodness.
It is a light not of this world but coming from God, and may in consequence be
led to give honor and praise to its Giver.
I read about a seminary in Indonesia that reflects this
teaching of Jesus. The seminary is surrounded by a Muslim community where many
live in poverty. Rather than live in an isolated enclave, the school and
students serve this community with the love of Jesus. They teach literacy
lessons; they provide first-aid medical care; they distribute food and clothing
to the hungry and naked.
During an outbreak of violence by extremists against
churches in the area, an angry Muslim mob approached the seminary one night
chanting their slogans and waving their machetes.
When they arrived at the
buildings, they found a circle of Muslim people surrounding the campus holding
hands in a large circle. They said to the extremists, “We will not allow you to
destroy this school. These people help us and our children with all our needs.
You may not harm them!” The mob disappeared.
***
Being
salt and light in the community also has its rewards.
***
Today I
resolve to live my life for Jesus in a way
that will positively “salt” my community.
that will positively “salt” my community.
***
PRAYER
Help me, Lord, to stand for the good and be a
salty influence for You in the world around me.
PRAYER
Help me, Lord, to stand for the good and be a
salty influence for You in the world around me.
***
What are your thoughts on this devotional? I would love
to hear from you. Please leave your comments! Thanks!
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