Sermon: September 29, 2024

Reading: Mark 9: 38-50

At the end of today’s gospel passage, Jesus uses salt as a metaphor. In ancient times, much like today, salt was used not only as a seasoning but as a preservative in food. The Bible also mentions salt having several symbolic uses. In the book of Exodus, salt was mixed with incense and considered “pure and holy.” In 2 Kings, salt was again used to purify. In the Book of Numbers, salt was used as a symbol of the covenant between Yahweh and Israel. Salt was also a required part of sacrifices offered to God. And in the rabbinic tradition, salt represented wisdom. Because of these uses, salt became a symbol of purity, incorruptibility, and holiness.

More than likely, when Jesus says, “Have salt in yourselves and be at peace with one another.” he is encouraging us to be wise, holy, and pure in how we treat one another, embracing the lessons he has been teaching by eliminating the stumbling blocks we place in the path of others and ourselves through our words and actions. We are to be a conduit of God’s love and grace, which, as Jesus says, can be something as simple as giving a glass of water to someone who is thirsty, giving food to the hungry, clothing to someone who needs it, or welcoming a stranger or a foreigner. When we do these things, we welcome not only a sister or brother, but we welcome and serve God.

With the help of Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit, may we have salt within ourselves and the wisdom, awareness, and courage to eliminate the stumbling blocks of our words and actions that are placed in front of others and ourselves. May we be willing to open the door to Christ and the most vulnerable in society by showing love and compassion, enabling all people to live together in God’s peace.