Being Salt and Light in Our Communities
Summary
### Summary
Good morning, everyone. Today, we gathered to worship and reflect on our role as followers of Jesus, especially in the context of our ongoing series on the Sermon on the Mount. We began by acknowledging the dedication of our youth volunteers who are currently at camp, praying for their strength and the impact they will have on our youth. As we celebrate 100 years of our church, we are reminded of the importance of community and the privilege of participating in democratic processes, especially as we approach an election year.
Our focus today was on Jesus' teaching that we are the salt of the earth. Salt, as we know, enhances flavor and preserves goodness. Jesus calls us to be the salt in our communities, to bring out the best in others and to preserve the goodness of God in the world. This calling is especially significant in times of political and social turmoil. We discussed the importance of voting not just for our own benefit but for the benefit of others, reflecting the selfless love that Jesus exemplified.
We also touched on the concept of resilience and perseverance. In a world filled with trauma and oppression, Jesus invites us to reconnect with ourselves and with God, to find vitality and purpose. This resilience is not just for our own healing but to enable us to be effective salt and light in our communities. We are called to move beyond our personal struggles and to engage actively in making a positive impact.
In practical terms, being salt and light means taking responsibility in our relationships, owning up to our mistakes, and making small but significant changes that can transform our homes, workplaces, and neighborhoods. It means being present, engaged, and generous, even in the face of challenges. Jesus' message is clear: we are chosen by grace, and this grace empowers us to be a transformative presence in the world.
### Key Takeaways
1. The Privilege of Voting: Voting is a significant privilege and responsibility. As Christians, we are called to consider the well-being of others when we vote, not just our own interests. This selfless approach reflects the teachings of Jesus and can lead to a more just and compassionate society. [37:49]
2. Resilience and Perseverance: Jesus calls us to resilience and perseverance, especially in the face of trauma and oppression. This involves reconnecting with ourselves and with God, finding vitality, and moving beyond our struggles to make a positive impact in our communities. [45:29]
3. Being Salt in Relationships: Being salt in our relationships means taking responsibility for our actions, owning up to our mistakes, and making small changes that can transform our homes and communities. This approach fosters a culture of accountability and grace. [49:11]
4. The Role of the Church in the City: Historically, the church has been a beacon of light in the city, symbolized by the steeple. Today, we are called to be that light through our actions and presence, reflecting the love and grace of Jesus in our communities. [57:57]
5. Living Out Our Calling: Jesus reminds us that we are chosen by grace, not by our own merit. This grace empowers us to be salt and light in the world, to preserve the goodness of God, and to illuminate His love and truth in our daily lives. [01:01:09]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[06:40] - Worship and Announcements
[36:23] - Celebrating 100 Years
[37:49] - The Privilege of Voting
[39:14] - Voting for the Benefit of Others
[41:10] - Jesus' Teaching on Oppression
[42:47] - The Role of Salt
[45:29] - Resilience and Perseverance
[49:11] - Being Salt in Relationships
[50:13] - Cultural Reflections
[51:42] - The Importance of Saltiness
[57:57] - The Church's Role in the City
[01:01:09] - Living Out Our Calling
[01:04:34] - Jesus as Salt and Light
[01:08:14] - Announcements and Benediction
Study Guide
### Bible Reading
1. Matthew 5:13-16 (NIV)
> "You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot. You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead, they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven."
2. Jeremiah 29:7 (NIV)
> "Also, seek the peace and prosperity of the city to which I have carried you into exile. Pray to the Lord for it, because if it prospers, you too will prosper."
### Observation Questions
1. What does Jesus mean when He says, "You are the salt of the earth"? How does He describe the consequences if salt loses its saltiness? (Matthew 5:13)
2. According to the sermon, what are some practical ways we can be "salt" in our relationships and communities? [49:11]
3. How does the concept of being "light" relate to our actions and presence in the city, as discussed in the sermon? [57:57]
4. What does Jeremiah 29:7 suggest about our role in the communities where we live, even if we feel out of place or in exile?
### Interpretation Questions
1. Why does Jesus emphasize the importance of maintaining our "saltiness"? What might this look like in our daily lives? (Matthew 5:13)
2. How can voting for the benefit of others reflect the selfless love that Jesus exemplified? [39:49]
3. In what ways does resilience and perseverance help us to be effective salt and light in our communities? [45:29]
4. How does the historical role of the church as a beacon of light in the city challenge us to live out our faith today? [57:57]
### Application Questions
1. Reflect on your voting habits. How can you ensure that your choices reflect a concern for the well-being of others, not just your own interests? [39:49]
2. Think about a recent challenge or trauma you have faced. How can reconnecting with God and finding resilience help you to move beyond your struggles and make a positive impact in your community? [45:29]
3. Identify a relationship in your life where you need to take responsibility for your actions. What small but significant change can you make to be "salt" in that relationship? [49:11]
4. How can you be a light in your workplace or neighborhood this week? What specific actions can you take to reflect the love and grace of Jesus? [57:57]
5. Consider the ways you might be losing your "saltiness." What steps can you take to reconnect with your purpose and calling as a follower of Jesus? [52:34]
6. How can you actively participate in the life of your city to seek its peace and prosperity, as encouraged in Jeremiah 29:7?
7. Reflect on the grace that has chosen and empowered you. How can this understanding motivate you to be a transformative presence in the world? [01:01:09]
Devotional
Day 1: The Privilege of Voting
As followers of Jesus, we are called to engage in the world around us in ways that reflect His love and justice. One significant way we can do this is through voting. Voting is not just a civic duty but a spiritual responsibility. When we vote, we have the opportunity to influence policies and leaders that can bring about positive change in our communities. Jesus taught us to love our neighbors as ourselves, and this includes considering their well-being when we make decisions at the ballot box. Voting with a selfless heart means prioritizing the needs of the marginalized, the oppressed, and the vulnerable, just as Jesus did. [37:49]
In a world where political and social turmoil is prevalent, our votes can be a beacon of hope and a step towards a more just and compassionate society. By voting thoughtfully and prayerfully, we can help preserve the goodness of God in our world and bring out the best in others. This is a powerful way to be the salt of the earth, enhancing the flavor of our communities with the love and justice of Christ.
1 Timothy 2:1-2 (ESV): "First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people, for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way."
Reflection: How can you ensure that your vote reflects the love and justice of Jesus? Consider the needs of the marginalized in your community as you prepare to vote.
Day 2: Resilience and Perseverance
Jesus calls us to resilience and perseverance, especially in the face of trauma and oppression. In a world filled with challenges, it is easy to become overwhelmed and lose hope. However, Jesus invites us to reconnect with ourselves and with God, finding vitality and purpose in our relationship with Him. This resilience is not just for our own healing but to enable us to be effective salt and light in our communities. [45:29]
When we persevere through difficulties, we become stronger and more capable of making a positive impact. Our struggles can become a testimony of God's faithfulness and a source of encouragement for others. By leaning on God's strength and grace, we can move beyond our personal struggles and engage actively in making a difference in the world around us. This is how we can truly embody the teachings of Jesus and be a transformative presence in our communities.
James 1:2-4 (ESV): "Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing."
Reflection: In what areas of your life do you need to persevere and trust in God's strength? How can your resilience be a testimony to others?
Day 3: Being Salt in Relationships
Being salt in our relationships means taking responsibility for our actions, owning up to our mistakes, and making small changes that can transform our homes and communities. This approach fosters a culture of accountability and grace. When we are willing to admit our faults and seek reconciliation, we create an environment where trust and love can flourish. [49:11]
Jesus taught us the importance of humility and forgiveness in our relationships. By being present, engaged, and generous, even in the face of challenges, we can reflect the love and grace of Jesus to those around us. Small acts of kindness and honesty can have a significant impact, transforming our relationships and communities for the better. This is how we can be the salt of the earth, preserving the goodness of God in our interactions with others.
Colossians 3:12-13 (ESV): "Put on then, as God's chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience, bearing with one another and, if one has a complaint against another, forgiving each other; as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive."
Reflection: Think of a relationship where you need to take responsibility for your actions. How can you seek reconciliation and bring about positive change in that relationship today?
Day 4: The Role of the Church in the City
Historically, the church has been a beacon of light in the city, symbolized by the steeple. Today, we are called to be that light through our actions and presence, reflecting the love and grace of Jesus in our communities. The church is not just a building but a community of believers who are called to make a difference in the world around them. [57:57]
As the body of Christ, we have a responsibility to engage with our communities and address the needs of those around us. This can involve various forms of outreach, service, and advocacy. By being a visible and active presence in our cities, we can demonstrate the love of Jesus and bring hope to those who are struggling. Our actions can serve as a testament to the transformative power of God's grace and love.
Matthew 5:14-16 (ESV): "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."
Reflection: How can you and your church community be a beacon of light in your city? What specific actions can you take to reflect the love and grace of Jesus in your community?
Day 5: Living Out Our Calling
Jesus reminds us that we are chosen by grace, not by our own merit. This grace empowers us to be salt and light in the world, to preserve the goodness of God, and to illuminate His love and truth in our daily lives. Understanding that we are chosen by grace should fill us with humility and gratitude, motivating us to live out our calling with passion and dedication. [01:01:09]
Living out our calling involves being intentional in our actions and decisions, seeking to reflect the character of Jesus in all that we do. It means being mindful of how we can make a positive impact in our homes, workplaces, and communities. By embracing our identity as God's chosen people, we can confidently step into our roles as salt and light, knowing that His grace is sufficient for us.
Ephesians 2:8-10 (ESV): "For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them."
Reflection: How can you live out your calling as salt and light in your daily life? What specific actions can you take to reflect God's grace and love to those around you?
Quotes
### Quotes for Outreach
1. "Sometimes we get stuck in the whirlwind of traumatic events. That have happened in our lives, or happening around us. And we don't see a way through. And that's one of the reasons I think counseling has been so impactful and helpful for me. But one of the things Gabor Mate, who is the leading guy on trauma, points out is that there are traumatic events surrounding us. But the thing that happens inside of us is the trauma. the trauma is the disconnection from our self. And one of the things that Jesus invites us to do if we walk with Jesus is he brings us back to connection with our self. Connection to God. And he brings us an alive heart. He invites us into vitality." [45:29] (48 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "As salt, we preserve the goods and we enhance the flavor. We preserve the good and we enhance the flavor of God. The flavor of God's goodness. Here on this earth. And how do we do this in our city? In our work? In our neighborhood? In our homes? And I just, in particular, would just dial in right now to our homes and our relationships. That one of the ways that you can be the salt is, I don't know if this happens in any of your relationships, but you get in these little fights. Right? You were supposed to change the laundry. You didn't change the laundry. Now the laundry smells like, you know, a wet dog. And you were supposed to change it. I told you to change it. You said you were going to change it. You didn't change it. You said you were going to change it. And you just get into these little, you know, little battles." [48:28] (57 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "But to be the person who owns it and goes back and says, you're right. I'm sorry. That is being salt in your relationships and in your house. And it actually starts to change your home. And it starts to change your kids. And it starts to change your workplace. And it starts to change your church. And it starts to change your neighborhood and your community, your city. Little actions like that. Remember Israel's mission from Jeremiah 27 as they went into the enemy city of Babylon? To be the salt. Be the salt." [49:11] (57 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "Jesus isn't mincing words here. Some of us get a little uncomfortable sometimes with the notion that God is speaking to us in this way. A way that we may have had others speak to us from authority who didn't have our blessing. Or our best intentions in mind. But Jesus has your best intentions in mind. I'm telling you. As Jesus is saying, do not waste your life. Don't throw it away. Remember your call, your purpose to be the salt. As Jesus reminded us, there's two masters. Which one will you serve? As Dan reminded us last week, don't waste your life hating your enemies. Learn to love your enemies. Love them. Hard work. But learn to love them." [52:34] (55 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "God calls his people to do this. Not just on an individual level, but at the city level. Reconnect to your purpose. Again, how do we do this? Or how are we not doing this? Where am I losing my saltiness? Last time I asked, how do we do it? But where are you losing your saltiness? For me personally, I've been following Jesus since I was 14. I feel like I was saltier back then. I feel like I was saltier when I was younger. I was a bigger risk taker. I engaged with the poor more. I was more available to be with people. I believed more in miracles." [53:37] (65 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
### Quotes for Members
1. "What does it look like for me to vote for the benefit of others? You know, I think most of the time when I have been taught to vote as a kid growing up in my household, you know, it was vote for the person that's going to do the best for us, like for my family, you know, whether that was like my dad's business or whatever it was, you know. But what does it mean, what does it look like to vote for the best of others? Like maybe somehow it might affect me even negatively, but for the sake of others." [39:14] (36 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "When Jesus is walking through Israel, he's walking through an occupied land, the people are oppressed by a Roman empire, and we hear stories of that oppression with the taxes, and different things that are happening, and they have been oppressed, they have a story of oppression, and victimization, and it's one of the things that Jesus speaks into because it has become... a focus for them, it has even become, I would say, a part of their identity, and to them, Jesus says these words, to these oppressed people, are the salt of the world, you are the salt of the world." [41:10] (56 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "You are the salt. It's not that Jesus doesn't see your suffering. He sees your suffering. He even sees your oppression, if there's oppression in your life. Or victimization. He sees it, and he still says to you. You are the salt. Why am I emphasizing this so much? Why does Jesus emphasize this so much? Um. Sometimes we get stuck in the whirlwind of traumatic events. That have happened in our lives, or happening around us. And we don't see a way through." [44:29] (41 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "And though that feels like a real reality, I want you to know it's not true. That we actually have been empowered to make a change. Because you are the salt. You are the salt. After everything you've been through. After everything we've been through. It's this moment of like grabbing your teammate off the ground, you know, by his face mask. Like lifting him up. Grabbing their helmet. Look him in the eye and tell him, you're the salt. We're the salt. There's a mission before us. And we must keep going." [47:41] (44 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "One of the things that I've discovered over time is a lot of times that people who are the elect begin to think they are the elite. You know, I'm chosen, so it makes me, like, more special than everybody else. To be chosen by God is to look out and to see everybody else in a way is, like, more special than you. That you would give up your life for them. That that's what it means to be reflecting, illuminating the light of God in this world. Because you're illuminating what Jesus did for us. That he would give up his life for us." [01:01:09] (51 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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