This morning I was reading my devotion from the Center for Action and Contemplation. It happens that the theme for this year with them is based on Matthew’s gospel and Jesus’ words from the Sermon on the Mount. “You are the salt of the earth, but if salt has lost its taste, how can its saltiness be restored? It is no longer good for anything but is thrown out and trampled underfoot. You are the light of the world. A city built on a hill cannot be hid. People do not light a lamp and put it under the bushel basket; rather, they put it on the lampstand, 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 in heaven.” Matthew 5:13-16

In this morning’s devotion, we are reminded that Jesus tells us, “You are the salt of the earth.” He does not say we will be, or we should be, or we will become the salt of the earth. We are told we are the salt of the earth. Salt was a precious commodity. Here is how spiritual writer Debbie Thomas talks about us being salt. “Salt at its best sustains and enriches life. It pours itself out with discretion so that God’s kingdom might be known on the earth—a kingdom of spice and zest, a kingdom of health and wholeness, a kingdom of varied depth, flavor, and complexity.”

This year at Main Street UMC we will focus on how we are salt and light for our community. Please join us on this journey of creating a Kingdom of salt and light.

Grace and peace,
Pastor Rich