Jesus talked in parables. His ideas were unconventional but He presented them in ways that were familiar to the people listening to Him. This style of talking sets the mind in the right position as it allows something concrete to base the new idea upon. Simple as it may have seem, the message required deeper thoughts to understand it. Since time immemorial, salt and light are among the everyday stuff of living. Everyone understood what they are and what they are for. However, when Jesus likened their lives to these concrete ideas, some ponderings on the part of the people became necessary. Enough with spoon-feeding, it was time to sort the crowd - those who who understood Him and those who were headless fanatics.
"You are the salt of the earth." ~ Matthew 5:13a
Salt is used for seasoning. Added at the right amount, salt is used to make foods taste better. It enhances or exposes the hidden flavors of food. Even in candy making, a pinch of salt is added to improve the sweetness of the candies. It makes eating more gratifying and enjoyable. As Christians we are meant to live a life of substance like that of salt. This body is only the casing a more valuable portion of this life. God had a purpose for each of us - to be a "seasoning" to life in this world. When we offer ourselves to season the lives of others, we live a life that pleases our Creator. Live therefore the purpose that you were prepared for lest you lose your significance.
Salt is used as a preservative. First of all, no microorganism can stand the strength of pure salt. Before the advent of refrigeration, the only way to preserve food especially in places with hot climates was salting. Furthermore, when added to vegetables and herbs like garlic, salt absorbs the water out and preserves the flavor inside. This allows them to maintain their usefulness over time. Salt brings out what lies inside to create a balance between the internal and external conditions.
How then shall we live if God intended for us to be salt of the earth? Life around us can be bland and marching towards decay. Preserve the inherent good while suppressing the inessential and destructive aspects of living.
"You are the light of the world." ~ Matthew 5:14a
Light reveals while darkness conceals. Light bears the inherent ability to expose things so that the eyes would see things that are. However, depending on its position it may not serve that function. Jesus calls us to poise our lives in such a way that we bring to light that which is true. Hold your torch so that light floods in all directions. If you have been filled with the spirit of God, does it show?
Jesus came to earth to redeem His people who would inherit His kingdom. You and I are here not to desire to live a life of comfort but of victory by proclaiming about His kingdom. Victorious people are not complacent. Through His grace, we have been empowered by the Holy Spirit so that our lives would be the light that peels away darkness. After two thousand years, many still do not know about that kingdom. If we have been graced with the knowledge of the truth about God then by all means let your deeds shed light. Make sure that your lifestyle does not jeopardize your calling as the light of the world.
"In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven." ~ Matthew 5:16
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