Season/Shine

Pastor: Jeff Love

Series: Summer on the Mount

Scripture: Matthew 5:13–16

Last Sunday, we continued our journey through Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount—a teaching that’s as surprising today as it was to the original crowd gathered on that hillside. After walking through the eight short yet powerful Beatitudes, Jesus shifts from the “Blessed are…” to the very personal “You are…”—a move from general truths to a direct challenge.

You are the salt of the earth.You are the light of the world.

These aren't suggestions or possibilities. They’re statements of identity for those who follow Jesus. If you’ve repented, believed, and joined the Kingdom of Heaven, you are salt. You are light. The question isn’t if you are, but how you are living that out.

Salt: Present and Powerful

In Jesus’ day, salt was precious. It preserved food, enhanced flavor, and even served as payment. For us, it’s a reminder that our presence as believers is meant to make a difference. Like salt, we’re called to preserve what is good, to slow moral decay, and to make life more meaningful for those around us. But salt only works when it’s applied—left in the shaker, it’s useless.

Are we showing up in our homes, workplaces, and communities as a preserving, life-giving presence? Or have we become “contaminated” and lost our influence?

Light: Seen and Shared

Jesus also says we are the light of the world. Not the source (that’s Him), but a reflection of His light. In a world marked by darkness—confusion, sin, fear—light stands out. And even a little light changes everything.

So, why would we hide it?

Jesus paints the picture of a lamp on a stand, giving light to all in the house. When we live out our faith authentically, others see. They may not understand it at first—but they see the difference. And some of them will be drawn to the Light because of your good works.

The Result: Glory to God

When we live out our new identity—salt that preserves and flavors, light that reveals and gives hope—something powerful happens. Jesus says others will “see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven” (Matt. 5:16). In other words, your life can become the reason someone else comes to faith.

That’s the goal. That’s the mission.

Why This Matters

In the end, the difference we make isn’t about being noticed or praised. It’s about helping others find Jesus. When you live as salt and light, your life tells a story of grace. You point people to a Kingdom that’s not of this world—and to a King who changes everything.

Whether you’re a parent, student, coworker, or neighbor—you’re in a place where you can shine.

So we ask:Who was salt and light for you?And who might God be calling you to influence this week?