Sweet and salty.

I like sweet things. I also really, REALLY like salty things. I tend to keep the salt shaker handy when I'm cooking and when I get ready to dive into whatever I've made (or gotten from some" less than great for me" establishment!). It brings out the flavor. And, honestly, I would rather have salt than any other condiment. --Now before you tell me all the health risks associated with salt, I know. I really am trying to cut down and eat more whole, healthy food.

Several years ago I was reminded of my youth. I was at a senior adult conference to support one of my undergrad professors as she taught the daily Bible study sessions. She mentioned salt and asked what it was used to be used for. Well, everyone unanimously said "to preserve meat." She then told them how her students had no clue about that use. (I gave her a hard time later because a few of us DID know!)

Imagine my surprise this weekend as I read through Leviticus (yes, Leviticus!) as a part of my daily reading plan to read the Bible chronologically this year. (Thanks to youversion.com and Blue Letter Bible for the reading plans!) My general impression is that being a priest was more akin to a present day butcher than a present day preacher. Anyway, I digress.

In chapter 2, verse 13 the NLT says, "Season all your grain offerings with salt to remind you of God's eternal covenant. Never forget to add salt to your grain offerings." --WOW! I can add salt and reference Scripture as my guide! Ok--maybe not.

But, on another level, salt in the grain offerings?! Today, salt helps us savor the flavors of our food. What does that have to do with God's eternal covenant? I think we can connect the use of this salt idea with God's love for us in a couple of ways.

First, God's covenant is something to savor. Good food critics allow the flavors of their food to sit on their palates for a while so they can wrap their minds around all they are experiencing. Maybe we should sit within God's love and covenant with us, his people. Maybe we should savor the experience of salvation and grace.

Second, salt adds to our food. Again, the savoring idea, but more than that. It adds to the quality of the food many times. (We won't mention what happens if more than one person adds salt to a meal that is being prepared...another topic for another post!) Likewise, God's love for us adds to the quality and joy in our lives. His presence in our lives adds a peace and love that can only be found in him.

Two things are sure in Baptist life (and really any church that believes in proclaiming the gospel): we like our food and we love our God. What do we do when we eat a great meal or cook a fantastic recipe? What happens at potluck when we steal the show with our creation? Everyone wants the recipe and we WANT to share it! What happens when we are passionate about our relationship with God and our community of faith? What do we do when we experience the love, joy, and peace of Christ? We WANT to tell others.

Jesus said we were to be the salt of the earth. We are to help flavor the world with him. We are to add to creation in ways that increase its quality.

So, as you salt your food today and in the days to come remember God's eternal covenant. May we consume salt in moderation and be salt in the world.

Grace and peace.