What salt does

Jesus makes a comparison between His disciples and salt. You are the "salt of the earth." But what does that mean?

Preserve

The first thing salt does is preserve. Perhaps a little less known in our time and culture, but just do a little Google search. Salt counteracts spoilage.

Thus the disciples of Jesus are meant to counteract destruction in the world. Where things fall apart and decay, may we, on the contrary, show that things can be done differently. There is another way - the Jesus way. The way of the Kingdom.

Spoilage, in other words.

Flavor Making

Ever eaten a sandwich without salt? Then you need no further explanation. Salt brings flavor to dishes. Salt brings out flavors. There is no cuisine that does without it.

Thus disciples of Jesus are meant to be tastemakers. We may first taste for ourselves how good the Lord is. And we may then live out that goodness. We may bring flavor where flavor is lacking.

Healing

Salt combined with honey brings healing. It is a crucial ingredient for this medicine.

And immediately there again is the link to our lives. We, as disciples of Jesus, may be bringers of healing. Or, to stay exactly with the example, be part of it.

I challenge you to think of all areas of life when you think of healing. Body, mind, emotions, relationships. Just ask the great Healer how and where you may bring healing today.

You are the salt of the earth. Preserve it. Always remain connected with God, so that you will not lose flavor but will be and remain a flavoring agent. And just be available to be used as a link in a healing process.

Take the following questions to think about:

• Did you know these uses of salt?
• Do you see any of it in your life as a disciple?
• What would you like to see more of?

Prayer: "Lord, You say so simply that I am the salt of the earth. I often experience that as so limited. I would like so much more. Lord, please do Your work through me. Help me to always live connected with You so that You can use me to preserve, flavor, and bring healing. And thank You that You also know exactly where I myself need it in my life to be in touch with salt. Help me to be alert. I want to surrender myself to You for that, not in a passive way, but very actively. Lord here I am - just use me. Amen."