Today’s scripture: Matthew 5:13 & Mark 9:50 (NRSV) (The Message) (KJV) What might God be saying to me?
My thoughts (John Seskay):
Salt is fundamental for human survival. We require it in our diets to maintain properly the electrolytes that allow our cell processes to function well. So we find the taste of salt very satisfying. Almost everyone has an opinion about how much saltiness they like in their food!
Salt became one of the earliest universal commodities that everyone sought all through our checkered history. Its value has been recognized to the point where it has operated as a de facto currency. Our word “salary” comes from the fact that Roman legionnaires were at times paid in salt, as a truly universal agent for personal use and trade.
I can understand why Jesus used this example in his parables. Salt was valuable; everyone needed it and everyone used it. It could even be a preservative for some foods in the absence of refrigeration. But salt is a very dynamic molecular compound that can readily react with other substances, especially in the presence of dampness or moisture. So, salt reserves must be kept pure and not allowed to become contaminated. If the salt became corrupted by other substances, there was no way known to undo the damage. The ancient test was to taste it; the chemical changes would be very apparent to sensitive taste buds. Ruined salt had no value.
This was the lesson that Jesus wanted his apostles and followers to understand. Their spiritual nature, bestowed by God, was vital to their well-being and needed to be preserved from corruption. It was what gave their lives a unique character that the rest of the world craved. So they had to apply themselves, allowing their influence to flavor the world around them, without allowing the world around them to alter the unique essence of their lives. Could they be immersed in the daily life of the world without absorbing its toxins?
Thought for the day: How do I feel at the end of the day? Do I still “taste” the flavor of the Holy Spirit in my life? Are my actions savory to God?
We encourage you to include a time of prayer with this reading. If you need a place to get started, consider the suggestions on the How to Pray page.