Amazedنموونە

Salt and Light

"You are the salt of the earth. . . You are the light of the world" (Matthew 5:13,14).

Untold numbers of “greater works” have occurred since Jesus went to his Father. As noted on day twenty-seven, the core of the mission is the worldwide spread of the gospel. Thus, believers are to carry on the ministry and message of reconciliation (2 Corinthians 5:18-21). Along with this, the Lord desires that you and I bring a redemptive aspect to each area of society and life.

From hospitals to orphanages to feeding the hungry and seeking justice (to name a handful), the Lord Jesus has been working through his followers to share His love, justice, faithfulness, and righteousness around the world. For instance, two inspiring ministries from the past come to mind.

One is William Wilberforce, a member of the British Parliament who dedicated his life to many causes, including the gospel. Perhaps he’s best known for his successful fight to see the Atlantic Slave Trade outlawed. It came at a cost, but shortly before the end of his life, he learned that the emancipation of enslaved people was also enacted.

Another is Amy Carmichael, a missionary to India. Along with her work in evangelism, she spent five decades rescuing abused girls. This included the babies of temple prostitutes. She certainly brought earthly and eternal hope to many.

While the examples above had an enormous impact, this is not to infer that the “greater works” means “larger works.” Instead, they are intended to show that whenever you and I bring a redemptive presence into society, whether it’s our homes, workplaces, or any context where we strive to love God and serve others, the Lord is working through us to advance His Kingdom. Included in this would be the way you and I interact with other believers.

Jesus gave us the command to love each other as he loved us. In doing so, all people will know that we’re his disciples (John 13:34-35). Therefore, as we love and serve one another in the Body of Christ, we’re used by God to help each other mature in our faith. As we mature, our light shines within Christ's church and subsequently to the world. Thus, the “greater works” Christ promised continue to progress. And underlying these works is the great work of prayer.

Reflection: What has God placed on your heart relative to being salt and light? Think about sharing this with a trusted Christian friend and asking the Lord how best to begin.

Matthew 5:13-16
Acts 6:1-7
Galatians 6:9-10
Ephesians 4:7-16