THE HUB

Light and Salt

Devotional

What should you do when tragedy strikes? Jesus told His disciples that they are the salt and light of the world. But, what does that mean exactly? It means that you, and the rest of the church, has a huge responsibility that you should neither run from nor neglect. Learn how you can fulfill this world changing role that Christ gave His church.

36 Then Jesus went with his disciples to a place called Gethsemane, and he said to them, “Sit here while I go over there and pray.” 37 He took Peter and the two sons of Zebedee along with him, and he began to be sorrowful and troubled. 38 Then he said to them, “My soul is overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death. Stay here and keep watch with me.” 39 Going a little farther, he fell with his face to the ground and prayed, “My Father, if it is possible, may this cup be taken from me. Yet not as I will, but as you will.” 40 Then he returned to his disciples and found them sleeping. “Couldn’t you men keep watch with me for one hour?” he asked Peter. 41 “Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.” 42 He went away a second time and prayed, “My Father, if it is not possible for this cup to be taken away unless I drink it, may your will be done.” 43 When he came back, he again found them sleeping, because their eyes were heavy. 44 So he left them and went away once more and prayed the third time, saying the same thing.

MATTHEW 5:13-16

Questions:

  • How do you typically respond when tragedy strikes in the world?
  • "It is our responsibility as light and salt to do something about the tragedy and destruction we see in the world." How would you say you are doing at responding to the destruction in this world?
  • Jesus indicates that its possible to lose "saltiness" in verse 13. In your life, what are some of the things that keep you from having the effect in your culture that you know God wants you to have?
  • What might be one area that God is calling you to go and make a difference in?

Practice The Way of Jesus:

In the Gospels, Jesus is often described as someone with compassion (Luke 7:13, Matthew 9:36, Matthew 20:34 etc). How would others describe you? Are you actively being the light and salt of this world? This week, imitate the way and heart of Jesus. Take a moment to notice the needs of this world. Consider what it would look like to care about those needs and seek to bring relief by giving what you have.