The Upper Room Daily Devotion – Sunday, 20 December 2013 “A Real Revolution” Read Matthew 5

The Upper Room Daily Devotion – Sunday, 20 December 2013 “A Real Revolution” Read Matthew 5: Salt and Light

13 “You are the salt of the earth; but if salt has lost its taste, how can its saltiness be restored? It is no longer good for anything, but is thrown out and trampled under foot.

14 “You are the light of the world. A city built on a hill cannot be hid. 15 No one after lighting a lamp puts it under the bushel basket, but on the lampstand, and it gives light to all in the house. 16 In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven.

Let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven.(Matthew 5:16 (NRSV))

In the Sermon on the Mount (Matt. 5:3-7:27), Jesus was giving the disciples their purpose here on earth, instructing them on spreading the message of salvation and eternal life. When Jesus said, “You are the salt of the earth [and] . . . the light of the world,” he was calling us to make a positive difference in the world. Salt adds flavor and preserves food. Light dispels the darkness so that we can instantly see the way ahead. In a similar way, we can add flavor to the lives of others just by being encouragers. By sharing the message of salvation, we can shine light into dark situations. As we come to the end of the year we start thinking about New Year’s resolutions, about making a decision to fix something, change something, or resolve something. What if this year we resolve to follow the Sermon on the Mount? Telling others about Jesus can be difficult — especially in today’s world. We often fear rejection, mockery, and even persecution. But if we resolve to let Christ live through us, we can be salt and light in the world. We can make a difference in our homes, our families, our work places, and our communities.(The Author-Vince Beaver (Ohio, USA))

Thought for the Day: With God’s help, I can make a difference in someone’s life today.

Prayer: Dear God, give us the courage to stand for you in the face of mockery or persecution. Give us opportunities to help spread the good news and to see lives changed. Amen.

Prayer focus: For opportunities to share the gospel

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