February 7, 2007
The Power Of Influence
READ: Matthew 5:1-16
You are the salt of the earth; but if the salt loses its flavor, how shall it be seasoned? —Matthew 5:13
On February 9, 1964, the Beatles appeared on The Ed Sullivan Show and captivated the youth of America. After hearing their music and seeing their "look," I did what millions of young American boys did—I begged my parents to let me grow my hair. Then, along with my best friend Tommy, I started a garage band. The Beatles’ performance had such an impact on us that we intentionally tried to be like them. It was a significant introduction to the power of influence.
Years later, the power of influence came to mean something far more significant to me as I began my journey as a follower of Christ. I had the desire to live under the influence of Christ, but I also wanted to be an influencer of others by pointing them to the Savior.
In part, this is what Jesus was challenging us to understand in Matthew 5:13-16. Salt and light are influential factors in a dark and corrupting world, and Christ, who is the Light of the world, calls us to be lights of influence as well. The Master who modeled perfect purity calls us to be salt that adds flavor and prevents corruption.
May we not only be influenced by Christ but also be influencers for Christ in a needy world.
In all I say and do,
That Your great love displayed in me
May lead someone to You. —Sper
