1. You are the salt of the earth (13)

Jesus' disciples must be salty. Salt preserves and prevents corruption; it makes tasteless food tasty. Salty Christians are those who do not compromise with the world or accept its standards. They may be laughed at, and/or persecuted, but their influence is felt. Those who lose their saltiness by compromising with the values and morals of society are worse than useless.

2. You are the light of the world (14-16)

God wants his people to shine the light of his truth and love into the world. Our Puritan forefathers wanted America to be an exemplary Christian nation, like a city on a hill, giving God's light to the whole world. May God fulfill in this land the original purpose of our forefathers. When we obey God's word, and do good deeds for his glory, his light shines from our lives. This brings honor to our Father in heaven.

Application: Lord, remove our inner corruption and make America like a city on a hill that gives the light of God's love and salvation to all the people of the world.
One Word: Be salt and light