Enhanced and Lit
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. Matthew 5:13-16 NIV
I walked into the foyer Sunday and was greeted with big smiles and genuine hugs—you know the kind you don’t want to let go of. The area was bustling in preparation for social time after service. The pews began to fill. I got out of my seat several times to greet people and find out how they were doing. But what did I observe? Let me tell you a few things I saw that melted my heart.
· Couples greeting each other with hugs
· Men shaking hands with a shoulder pat
· Mothers kissing their children
· Laughing and giggling
· Older folks embracing the youth
· Many children
· Husbands and wives holding hands
· Helping hands for the elderly
There were smiles to be seen on the faces of most and it felt good. I got the sense that they wanted to be there. I know I did!
Before I even knew what pastor’s message was for the morning, I had already made some observations that I knew I would use in a devotion. I was not disappointed!
As a church, our salt has not lost its flavor! Maybe a few grains might be considered tasteless but for the most part, I believe that we are all at the same feast continuing to enhance the flavor of our faith.
When we look at what our church body has accomplished, there is little chance that our light is going to go out anytime soon. In fact, I believe it is getting brighter every day.
What a wonderful place to be! Our church has the ability to invite others to come and experience the love of Jesus that shines through us. I mean—really, who wouldn’t want to be here?
Heavenly Father, thank You for our church and for being our model of salt and light. May we add flavor and light to our community by sharing Your Love with those around us. AMEN.