The following piece was first written for the July 12, 2026 pew sheet at St Augustine’s Anglican Church. I share it here again in the hope that it may continue to encourage and bless.
In this Sunday's Gospel reading, Jesus tells his disciples, 'You are the salt of the earth … You are the light of the world' (Matthew 5:13–14). These are familiar words, yet they are among the most practical and challenging things Jesus ever said. Sometimes we can think that being a Christian witness is something difficult or reserved for those with special gifts. But Jesus uses two simple, everyday images that everyone can understand. Salt and light are not complicated. They simply do what they were made to do. Salt preserves. It slows decay and brings out the flavour of food. Light dispels darkness, enables people to see, and gives warmth and reassurance. In a world that is often marked by confusion, division, loneliness and uncertainty, Christians are called to have that same kind of influence. Through our words, our actions, and our character, we are to bring hope, truth, kindness, integrity, and peace wherever God has placed us. The encouraging thing is that we do not have to begin somewhere extraordinary. We begin exactly where we are. In our homes, we can be salt and light through patience, forgiveness and love. In our workplaces, we can reflect Christ through honesty, diligence and encouragement. In our neighbourhoods, we can show kindness, hospitality and genuine care for those around us. Often it is the small, faithful acts of everyday discipleship that God uses most powerfully. Above all, we are called to bear witness to the saving love and grace of Jesus Christ. Our lives should point people to him, and our words should be ready to speak of the hope we have found in him. Salt and light are never ends in themselves – they exist to benefit others and ultimately to bring glory to God. This is also the vision that is shaping our new Mission Action Plan. As a church, we are prayerfully asking how God is calling us to be salt and light in our local community. We want to be a church that serves others, shares the good news of Jesus Christ and shines his light in practical and meaningful ways. May the Lord help each one of us this week to be faithful salt and bright light, so that others may see our good works and glorify our Father in heaven.
