“You are the salt of the earth” (Matt. 5:13, NRSV).
In southern Indiana, there is a limestone quarry, the largest in the world. Most of the finest quality limestone is cut from this massive shelf of limestone, and the Bedford, Ind., quarry stone has built some of the most impressive buildings in such places as New York and Chicago. The southern Indiana earth is filled with limestone, and the quantity seem limitless.
Jesus often referenced the rocks, trees and the formations of the earth to describe spiritual realities. When Jesus talked about being the salt of the earth, it is as if He was using an object lesson to speak to the value we all possess. Salt is plentiful, commonplace, but how often do we overlook the value of our own efforts, including the value or impact our faith may have upon the world?
Teenagers, perhaps more than adults, tend to undervalue themselves. They still may be wrestling with their own places in the world or wondering what they have to offer. They still may be wrestling with those values that will shape their lives, or they may believe they don’t have enough faith. As leaders, we can help teenagers remember they are like salt—common but valuable. Their faith and energies make a difference in their communities—to their friends and families.
This simple devotion often can be helped along by actually holding a salt shaker in hand. Sprinkle some in the palm. Hand if off to one of your students. We need to get out of the salt shaker and into the world. That’s where we add our flavor to life.
