In Matthew 5:13–16, Jesus uses two ordinary images—salt and light—to describe an extraordinary calling.
“You are the salt of the earth.”
Salt was valuable in Jesus’ time. It preserved food, added flavor, and kept things from decaying. In the same way, the Gospel preserves life, fights against the decay of sin, and brings hope where there is hopelessness.
But Jesus also warns us: salt can lose its taste. Salt in the ancient world was often mixed with other minerals that made it less effective. Spiritually, we can lose our “saltiness” in at least three ways:
- By operating on the basis of our feelings instead of our faith.
- By compromising our commitment to the Lord.
- By failing to love others as Christ has called us to.
When those things creep in, our witness weakens. It’s worth pausing to ask: What in my life is diluting my saltiness?
“You are the light of the world.”
Light isn’t meant to be hidden. A lamp is placed high so it can illuminate everything around it. Jesus calls us to let our light shine so others can see our good works and give glory to God.
Light’s purpose is simple but powerful—it drives out darkness. And Jesus, the Light of the World, now invites us to carry that light into the places He has put us.
Salt and light work naturally.
Neither salt nor light chooses where to work; they simply do what they are meant to do. As believers, our calling is the same: to live openly and purposefully, letting our lives point people to Jesus.
This doesn’t mean we have to be perfect. It means we live differently—with faith that overcomes fear, love that extends beyond comfort, and a hope that outlasts hardship. Being salt and light means we stand out—not for our own glory, but so people see Jesus through us.
The beauty of this calling is that God doesn’t ask us to do it in our own strength. He empowers us with His Spirit to stay salty, to shine bright, and to bring His love into dark places.
So today, consider: Where is God asking you to add flavor and shine light? It may be in your workplace, your home, or even a simple conversation with a neighbor. Don’t hide what God has given you. The world needs His salt and light, shining through you.