The past three weeks I’ve been sharing on the theme of identity. We’ve looked at how we are called to be ambassadors, masterpieces that serve, and overcomers. This week I want us to think about the ways we add value to the world. It’s crazy to me how one little difference can add major value to something. A typical t-shirt runs around $10, yet if it says Gucci or Prada on it expect to pay around $500 (no, I’m not joking!). I have longed loved the History Channel show Pawn Stars, and am amazed at how much value the littlest thing can add. Something that is only worth a few bucks is transformed into thousands if it was signed or owned by someone famous. The littlest things can add the greatest of value.
Jesus teaches us about adding value to the world in his magnum opus, the Sermon on the Mount.
“You are the salt of the earth, but if salt has lost its taste, how shall its saltiness be restored? It is no longer good for anything except to be thrown out and trampled under people’s feet.“You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven. Matthew 5:13-16
Jesus is calling us to be constantly adding value to everyone around us by making them better. He starts by telling us to be salt to our world. As we probably have all experienced with food, salt can make just about anything better. It adds that little bit of flavor that can take some bland and make it awesome. Jesus is telling us that we need to make people better. We need to encourage them, pray for them, share the gospel with them, help them in struggles, and more. In our ever competitive world, I would add that we need to see everyone around us not as competition, but as people God wants us to help make even better.
Just last night the power went out at the worst time: when I was just finishing cooking supper. Luckily, this happens often enough that I keep a headlamp in my kitchen. I simply popped it on and immediately could see well enough to finish my cooking and enjoy my meal. Jesus wants us to have that sort of impact of others. He wants us to be able to guide people towards Him. Not only by sharing the gospel, but by modeling good works and a Christian life in all we do.
This week, I encourage you to constantly ask yourself: what have I added to the lives of others today? How have I added flavor, love, and goodness to them? How have I pointed them toward God? Every day should be a day that we add a little salt and light to our world.
