Day 1: Salt & Light
Chapters 5 – 7 in the Gospel of Matthew are widely referred to as the Sermon on the Mount. While this ‘sermon’ likely contains quotes from several days of teachings, one Study Bible notes that some of the key points of Jesus’ sermon are that position, authority, and money, are not of significant value in the Kingdom of God. Instead, God is most interested in the hearts and minds of His people trusting Him.
For those who trust God, Jesus shares a profound reality:
“You are the salt of the earth…You are the light of the world.”
Salt and Light are significant agents of change. Salt affects not just the taste of food, but also preserves it, helping it to last longer and continue to provide sustenance to those who need it. Similarly, light affects the world around it like nothing else. Even the smallest bit of light can make the depths of a pitch-black cavern visible.
Jesus’ teaching could not have been misunderstood by those who first heard it. They didn’t hear Him say, “You can be agents of change in this world.” Instead, they heard Him say, “You are agents of change in this world. In the ways that you have been changed by Me, go out and be that change in the lives of others!” As you read today, consider this: How has God uniquely created you to be an agent of change?
READING:
How has God uniquely created you to be an agent of change in your family? Your job? Your school?
What is one way you will commit to being an agent of change throughout the week?
F260 READING: (A Scripture Reading Plan for Busy Believers)
Read: Exodus 8-9
Reflect: What did you H.E.A.R. from God today? HEAR Bible Study Method
PRAYER:
Heavenly Father, today revealed to me that You haven’t just invited me to be an agent of change in this world. Instead, You have declared that I am an agent of change! Today, I humbly pray that You will reveal to me ways in which I can be an agent of change in my family. Reveal to me ways I can be an agent of change at work. Reveal to me ways I can be an agent of change in the lives of complete strangers I see at the gas station and grocery store. You have been the ultimate agent of change in my life, and have called me to be the same in the lives of others. As I see these positive changes unfold around me, may I give You the glory for it all. I pray in Jesus’ name. Amen.
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