(Matthew 5:13-16 ESV) “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.”
REPRESENT: To be entitled or appointed to act or speak for (someone), especially in an official capacity.
I’m naturally a people person. I’ve always enjoyed interacting with people. In fact, there have been times that I’ve embarrassed my family because of my propensity to engage people in meaningless chatter at restaurants. I just can’t help myself! For others, the very thought of interacting with the public can be stressful.
As Christians, we have been appointed to represent Christ to our circle of influence. Jesus called us salt and light; both of which have the power to influence. Salt influences the food that it seasons, and light overpowers the darkness. But, if the salt becomes tasteless, and the light is covered, our influence will have no eternal value.
There are three ideas that are presented in this passage of Scripture. First, we are to purposefully shine our light before others. We are never to hide our influence by being undercover agents. Secondly, we shine our lights by being involved in good works. We can preach all we want, but our witness will be ineffective unless accompanied by good works. Finally, the primary purpose of the work that we do and the words that we speak are to bring glory to our Father in Heaven.
I continue to be amazed by the fact that God has trusted me to represent Him to the world. Surely Jesus will return soon. But until He does, we have been commissioned to show the world His love. Represent!
PRAYER: Father, thank you for trusting me to represent you. I’m am able to do it because You live in me and have empowered me by Your Spirit. Amen.
Living The SpiritLife 