This week in Roadmaps, we looked at something Jesus says about His followers that is both encouraging and challenging.
Jesus says:
“You are the salt of the earth…
You are the light of the world.”
— Matthew 5:13–14
What Jesus is saying is that followers of Jesus are meant to make a difference in the world around them!
You Are the Salt of the Earth
Salt was incredibly valuable in the ancient world. It was used to:
- Preserve food
- Add flavor
- Help with healing
Jesus uses this image to describe His followers. As Christians, we are meant to influence the world around us for good. Not by being louder than everyone else but by living in a way that brings goodness, truth, and hope into broken places. We are meant to help stop the spread of evil in this world by modelling a better way of life!
You Are the Light of the World
Light does one very simple thing: it pushes back the darkness.
Jesus says our lives should shine in a way that points people toward God. Not to draw attention to ourselves, but to benefit people by showing something different about how we live.
Jesus Raises the Standard
Many people think Jesus lowers the bar when it comes to the law. When we read books like Leviticus in the Old Testament, the laws that the Israelites had can seem overwhelming.
But in this part of His teaching, He actually raises the bar. He says following Him isn’t just about behaviour. It’s about the heart.
In other words… Jesus isn’t lowering the bar; He’s relocating it to your heart.
For example:
- It’s not just about avoiding murder — it’s about dealing with anger. (Matthew 5:21-25)
- It’s not just about avoiding adultery — it’s about guarding our thoughts. (5:27-30)
- It’s not just about avoiding revenge — it’s about choosing forgiveness. (5:38-42)
- It’s not just about loving friends — it’s about loving enemies. (5:43-48)
Jesus moves obedience from just outward behaviour to the motives of our hearts. Which is what he is talking about in verses 17-18, when it comes to the Pharisees, they cared more about looking the part than actually being the part.
Wholehearted living goes deeper than behaviour; it transforms your heart.
Why the Heart Matters
It’s possible to look good on the outside while struggling on the inside, and Jesus isn’t interested in surface-level change. He wants something deeper that will actually equip you for your WHOLE LIFE!
He wants our motives, desires, attitudes and character to be transformed. That’s what wholehearted living looks like!
And like our theme for this school year, found in Jeremiah 29:13, says, “13 You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.” When we seek God with our whole heart, the promise to you and to me is that we WILL find Him!
Reflection Questions
Students
- Where is it easier to look good on the outside than be honest on the inside?
- What area of your heart might God want to change?
- How could you be “salt and light” at school this week?
Parents
- How can we help students focus on heart transformation instead of just behaviour?
- What conversations help students understand integrity?
- Where do students feel pressure to appear perfect?
Weekly Challenge
Ask God one simple prayer this week:
“God, change my heart — not just my behaviour.”
Then look for one small way to be salt and light in someone’s life.
A kind word, standing up for someone or maybe choosing forgiveness.
Because the roadmap Jesus gives us isn’t about looking good, it’s about a transformed heart.
