Salt

Jesus knew the importance of salt. When used in food, a small quantity could add flavor, and a larger quantity could preserve the food. And when used carefully in agriculture, it could enhance the growing soil for some crops or treat certain kinds of manure. But all of this was possible only if the salt was pure. For example, most of the salt used in Israel came from the Dead Sea, which contained impurities. If the salt had impurities, it lost its flavoring, preserving, and agricultural qualities. But even then it could still be of some use. By scattering the impure salt on roads and walkways, it could melt any ice and snow and clear the way.

Jesus often used common things to teach important lessons. And so it was when He compared His followers to salt. "Salt is good. And you are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness--its savor--how then can you make it salty again? With what can you season it? That salt is no longer good for anything, not even for the soil or the manure pile. It can only be thrown out and trampled upon. Those who have ears to hear, let them hear.

Jesus also knew these flavoring, preserving, and enriching qualities would be needed among the community of His followers. And so, He added, "Have salt among yourselves. And be at peace with one another.”

(See: Matthew 5:13; Mark 9:50; Luke 14:34-35)

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