(Repeated post from March 3, 2009)
Jesus, the Master Teacher, tells us in Matthew 5:13, that we, as Christians, are the salt of the earth. What a profound statement, but then to that Jesus poses a rhetorical question: “but if the salt have lost his savor (strength), wherewith shall it be salted”? Jesus underscores the reality that salt has the power to make a difference. Dear Ones, the Lord has strategically positioned us in the world to make a difference. In the ancient world, salt was used to flavor, preserve, and purify. As a flavor enhancer, salt adds zest and brings taste to what would otherwise be bland and disappointing. The overall climate of our nation is one of fear. The economy, the mortgage melt-down, the bank bailouts, unemployment, and this and that, all give cause for concern, however, we know in whom we have believed. As Christians, we are confident and optimistic that during these dark times: “The people that walked in darkness have seen a great light: they that dwell in the land of the shadow of death, upon them hath the light shined” (Isaiah 9:2). To the Christian I say, “get out of the shaker.” Salt is only effective when it engages its surroundings. Salt left in the shaker is of no use.
During these dark times, this should be the finest hour for the Church of the Living God. We know that our God, Jehovah-Jireh, is our source. The Lord will provide! Because of all we have in Jesus, our lives are rich and free. We are as Christians, not negative, not stagnated, not embroiled, in the fear and worry of the times, but rather confident in the Creator of the universe that is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the Power that worketh in us.
Beloved, as salt, please “get out of the shaker”!
Pastor J. Amos Jones
