Lectio Divina – NaCl & Lux
Taking the scientific formula for salt (NaCl) for sodium cloride, and the Greek word for Light (lux), this lecture is meant to help us reflect on what we are put on this earth to be. The encouragement from these bible lessons is to find ways to be like Christ: salt of the earth, and light to our fellow humans.
Salt of the Earth
The Gospel of Matthew 5:13 tells us as Christians that we are to be “salt of the earth.” This is a beautiful metaphor. In ancient times salt was used not only to bring flavor out of the meat, but also to preserve it from decay. So when Jesus said we are the salt of the earth, he meant we are supported to be honest, hard working, do good and keep our community from becoming corrupt. We are also supposed to be open to our fellow humans and open to Christianity.
Jeremiah 29 tells us that after the Israelites were exiled to Babylon, they were encouraged to be sources of peace in the city – plant gardens, build houses, and seek its prosperity. We can still serve people, be good neighbors and be involved in culture, while being faithful to and open about our own Judaism or Christianity.[1]
Light of the World
The concept of Jesus as the “Light of the World” is a profound and central theme in Christian theology. At its core, serving as the Light symbolizes Christ’s divine nature. It also harkens his other roles: the truths of salvation and his guidance for humanity. This second metaphor is drawn from the Gospel of John 8:12, where Jesus explicitly identifies himself as the Light of the World. The imagery of light is pervasive throughout the Bible, often representing purity, truth, and the presence of God. [2]
“I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in the darkness, but will have the light of life.” Jesus makes this statement during the Feast of Tabernacles, a time when large lamps were lit in the temple, symbolizing the pillar of fire that led the Israelites in the wilderness. Jesus’ declaration positions himself as the fulfillment of this divine guidance and illumination. Adding to the drama and miraculous nature of the scene, this quotation is made in the context of healing a man born blind, symbolizing the spiritual enlightenment and vision that Jesus enables. Christ’s miracles and teachings illuminate the truth of God’s kingdom, offering spiritual insight and understanding.
John the Apostle in earlier images of his Gospel 1:4-5 introduces Jesus as the “Word,” or logos, stating, “In him was life, and that life was the light of men. The Light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” This passage emphasizes the pre-existence of Christ and his role in creation, highlighting his life-giving gifts and illuminating power.
The metaphor of light is rich with theological implications. Light, in biblical terms, often signifies holiness, truth, and the revelation of God. Jesus, as the Light, embodies these attributes, revealing the nature of God to humanity. His light exposes sin and darkness, offering a path to redemption and eternal life.
Old Testament and Light Foreshadowing
The theme of light is not exclusive to the New Testament. The Old Testament contains numerous references that foreshadow Christ as the Light. The Prophet Isaiah foretells in 9:2 that “The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of the shadow of death, a light has dawned.” This prophecy is fulfilled in Jesus, who brings hope and salvation to a world shrouded in spiritual darkness.
And in Psalm 27:1 David declares, “The Lord is my light and my salvation—whom shall I fear?” This simple verse, a statement and a question, underscores the protective nature of God’s light, a role that Jesus fulfills as the Savior of the world. And really whom or what shall we fear anyway? If Jesus in on our side, we can be salt and light to those around us.
References:
[1] Keller, Timothy: https://timothykeller.com/books/how-to-reach-the-west-again page 50.
[2] Bible Hub: https://biblehub.com/topical/j/jesus_as_the_light_of_the_world.htm
Henry E. Hooper 