Bro. Ethan shares a field report on gospel work in the Czech Republic—where secularism and guarded hearts mean many come to Christ only after long, patient sowing—and then preaches Matthew 5:1–16. Jesus declares believers are valuable (“salt”) and visible (“light”). Our worth comes from our Creator, not our performance; our usefulness comes from fulfilling God’s purpose. The call is clear: embrace the Beatitudes, keep your “saltiness,” and let your light shine so others see your good works and glorify the Father.
Ye are the salt of the earth… Ye are the light of the world. – Matthew 5:13–14
Missions Moment — Czech Republic
Bro. Ethan described the field: a beautiful country with deep secular roots and guarded people. Many grew up hearing there is no God. Gospel work moves slowly: relationships first, Scripture over time. He shared Vladimír’s story—an atheist engineer who, after holding his newborn daughter, knew there must be more. Years of Bible reading, a providential church invite, conviction, and finally bowing in the night to call on Christ. Expect long sowing; the Word brings light.
Scripture Reading — Matthew 5:1–16 (KJV)
“Blessed are the poor in spirit… Blessed are the pure in heart… Blessed are they which are persecuted…
Ye are the salt of the earth… Ye are the light of the world… Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.”
1) You Are Valuable to God (Ps. 139:13–14; Rom. 5:8; John 6:37)
Your worth is God-given, not self-made. You are fearfully and wonderfully made; Christ loved you and died for you; and He receives all who come. After salvation, He lovingly chastens and grows us.
2) You Are Made for God’s Purpose (Matt. 5:13–16; Rom. 12:1)
Salt matters because it works; light matters because it shines. Jesus warns that useless salt is cast out. Believers are called to visible, useful discipleship—reasonable service, not half-measures or excuses.
3) Beatitude Living in a Broken World
Mourning means grief will come—but comfort will, too. Meekness means offenses give you space to trust God. Hungering for righteousness implies unrighteous seasons. Mercy means real opportunities to forgive. Purity means saying no to ingrained attitudes. Peacemaking means stepping into conflict—especially soulwinning. Persecution means joy now and reward later.
4) Are You Salty?
Is your faith evident? When did God last change you, and it stuck? When did you last give up time, money, or convenience for someone else? Don’t wait—obey today. God uses ordinary, imperfect people who surrender. Start now; you won’t regret obedience, but you will regret half-surrender.
Invitation
Have you lost your savour? Hidden your light? Surrender afresh—“Here am I, Lord; use me.” Decide tonight to live the Beatitudes and shine where God has placed you.
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