Engage

Jesus asks Christians to be the salt of the earth. What good is salt sitting on its own? Salt needs to touch food to be effective.

My mom loves to smile at strangers. We were walking in downtown Cleveland on a quiet Sunday afternoon, and every once in awhile someone would pass us. My dad made a comment about her smiling at each one, and she told us, “You just never know if it might make someone’s day.” She was right. She was a living expression of God’s kindness and love to others. Her eye contact and smile said, “I see you, and your life matters.”

As we’ve stopped wearing masks in most places, God’s asking His people to be the salt of the earth. He’s sending us out to engage others – not just the people we feel comfortable with. We must interact with others to be effective – to show dignity and love – to tell them “I see you, and your life matters.” That’s what Jesus did when He was on earth, and that’s what He’s called us to do.

Jesus, who do you want me to engage with today? Who could I smile at or talk to? Bring someone to mind, or make our paths intersect. Help me be sensitive to the promptings of your Spirit, and give me courage when I get nervous. May I be a living expression of your kindness and love. May I live for your glory, Lord, Amen.