There is a bluegrass song out by Ricky Skaggs and The Whites entitled, "Good People are the Salt of the Earth." I like the song, actually, but I do have a problem with what the song is saying. This world is made up of both good and bad (and many indifferent) people. However, are "good" people really "the salt of the earth?" In Matthew chapter five, Jesus is talking with his disciples (5:1) and tells them that "they" are the salt of the earth (5:13). Consider with me some concepts that this teaches.

Salt preserves things; it keeps things from corruption. We understand then that Christians are the salt that preserves this world from corruption. He also said you are the light of the world (v. 14). It is through you and me, as the children of God, that the light of Christ shines in the darkness of this sinful world. Consider how much evil there is in this world today. If it were not for the faithful in this world can we even begin to fathom the evil that would abound?

Salt also flavors. We can take from this teaching that the Christian continues to preserve the very existence of this earth by making things more palatable to God. The disciple of Christ does this by his obedient, faithful life. Consider what occurred in the days of Noah or in the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah. If it were not for the faithful disciples here on earth, just how long do you suppose God would allow things to continue?

Salt also provides needed chemical nutrients essential in helping things to grow. In the area in which I live, the land had to have iodine added to it years ago. What once was swampland is now a thriving agricultural community. Today the kingdom of God continues to grow because of His faithful disciples. What happens then if you and I lose the ability to salt the earth? How will the church grow, and what will become of us? In Luke 14:34-35 Jesus says, "Salt is good: but if the salt have lost his savour, wherewith shall it be seasoned? It is neither fit for the land, nor yet for the dunghill; but men cast it out ..."

I am certainly thankful for the "good people" I know, but they are not the "salt of the earth." My brothers and sisters in Christ are what salt this earth. Being a "good" person will not result in a home in Heaven with God, but being an obedient, faithful child of the King will. The burden we bear is a great one indeed, but certainly worth the reward. Be faithful! -355 Klingler Road, Paulding, Ohio 45879-9274. (419) 399-4761 pauldingcoc@windstream.net

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