Read: Matthew 5:11-16
In J. R. R. Tolkiens book The Hobbit, the wizard Gandalf explains why he has selected a small hobbit like Bilbo to accompany the dwarves to fight the enemy. He says, Saruman believes it is only great power that can hold evil in check, but that is not what I have found. I found it is the small everyday deeds of ordinary folk that keep the darkness at bay. Small acts of kindness and love.
Thats what Jesus teaches us as well. Warning us that we would live in dark times, He reminded us that because of Him we are the light of the world (Matt. 5:14) and that our good deeds would be the power against the darkness for the glory of God (v.16). And Peter, writing to believers in Christ who were facing severe persecution, told them to live so that those accusing them would by [their] good works which they observe, glorify God (1 Peter 2:12).
There is one force that the darkness cannot conquerthe force of loving acts of kindness done in Jesus name. It is Gods people who turn the other cheek, go the extra mile, and forgive and even love their enemies who oppose them who have the power to turn the tide against evil. So look for the privileged opportunity to perform acts of kindness today to bring the light of Christ to others.
Amen!
Tolkien was a Christian, and there is a lot of Christian Symbolism in his books.
I remember devouring those books as a kid!
:-)
Salt can be notice by the enhancement it gives to food, and other ways too. Light can always be seen as present, when it is, so what is impossible is for salt and light to not produce what they are created to produce.
No matter hard it is for some to express them, they must be expressed in some way.
God will help all seeking to know Him and LOVE Him, in Jesus name, Thank Thee LORD for the gifts of salt and light, let us gladly demonstrate them to others (the lost).
Prayers for the peace of Israel, and Jerusalem, the lost, the captives, for the persecuted believers, for the captives, the broken hearted and for America, let us not be deceived in Jesus name amen. PRAISE THE LORD God!