"You 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 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 lampstand, 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 5:16 NKJ)
Who am I? All our
lives we search for identity. Parents and other well-meaning people press us to
decide who we are and what we will do with our lives. In my dad's church when I
was four or five, several elderly ladies all asked the same question as they
bounced me on their knees: "Sylvester, when you grow up will you be a
preacher like your dad?"
Michael S. Dukakis
claims, “Our greatest strength comes not from what we possess but from what we
believe, not from what we have, but from who we are.” It amazes me how this
identity thing affects our lives, our vocations, our peace and happiness.
And in the
Scripture, Jesus tells his followers exactly who they are. "You are the
salt of the earth" and "you are the light of the world." Salt
and light, that's me. Everything about me is supposed to be a positive
influence for Christ. Everything about me is supposed to shine Christ into my
sphere of influence.
Our Lord's words may
stun us. The implication is almost overwhelming. How do we positively impact
others when "poor in spirit" (Mt. 5:3)? How do we shine the light of
Christ when in mourning (Mt. 5:4)? Are the storms of life actually God's vehicles
for transmitting his light and blessings?
It is a fact that
real life cannot be hidden. Life is not lived in a vacuum under a shade.
Instead, like a city on a hill, we all live in front of others: our families,
friends, and co-workers. We may not want our lives to be open books, but
someone is watching to see how we react to life's up and downs.
Perhaps this is the
best testimony we can share. As life tosses us about, the work of God in our
lives give forth praises and glory to God. People, who are watching, see us
walk through these most difficult trials with head held high, full of courage,
humility, and honesty. And Jesus said, "Don't hide. Let your light shine.
Others will see and glorify your Heavenly Father."
Dear Father, thank
you for identifying me as salt and light. Empower me to truly impact the lives
of others with your light. I pray this in the name of Jesus. AMEN
Let Jesus give you
identity today.
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