In this message from our Non-Anxious Misfit series, “Salt, Light, and Shalom,” we reflect on Jesus’ words in Matthew 5:13–16: “You are the salt of the earth… You are the light of the world.” Notice—Jesus doesn’t say try to be salt or work hard to become light. He says you are.

This sermon invites us to consider the profound truth that our actions flow from identity. We don’t strive for worthiness in order to shine; we shine because we already belong to the Light. We don’t manufacture flavor in a bland world; we embody the preserving, healing presence of Christ because that’s who we are becoming together.

Drawing from Dr. Chanequa Walker-Barnes’ work in Sacred Self-Care, we explore how burnout is not the cost of caring—it’s often the cost of neglecting ourselves. If we are salt and light, then tending to our nervous systems, our bodies, and our souls is not selfish—it’s faithful. A non-anxious misfit community cannot radiate shalom if it is chronically exhausted.

Ultimately, this message reframes discipleship as grounded presence rather than frantic performance. In a culture driven by outrage, fear, and urgency, Jesus calls us to a different way: rooted identity, embodied love, and steady illumination. Salt. Light. Shalom. Not anxious striving—but a peaceful, courageous way of being in the world.