Worthless yet so worthwhile
Have you ever sat down and thought about value? In order for something to be valuable, it has to have a standard by which its worth is measured. This measuring rod is often called a “value system.” This world has a value system. Condominiums on a South Florida beach are very valuable. A high paying position at work, all manner of material possessions, a reputation (good or bad depending on your preference)… all these things the world considers valuable.
Have you ever considered your own value? It was determined by a group of scientists in 1950, that the broken down elements of the human body are worth $1.78. You know what the sad thing is? There are many times when I feel just that worthless. When I look at the vastness of this universe and the complexity of creation, it’s easy to come to the same conclusions as King Solomon who wrote, “Vanity, vanity, all is vanity.” I mean what is my life worth, really? I look inside and see sin, weakness and frailty. I look outside and see a perishing body and pointless pursuits. Sometimes I look at myself and find it difficult to understand how God can see me as worthwhile. You would think that God, who spoke into existence all of life, the universe, the laws of nature, physics and time, would have something more worthwhile to do than treasure and value a pile of dust like me. David pondered this when he asked God the question, “What is man that you are mindful of him…”
Maybe a perspective change is needed. We look at things like the universe and nature and are amazed. We marvel because all these things are greater than what we can comprehend. We see greatness and majesty all around us, then we look at ourselves and feel like we don’t quite match up. What we must understand is that God does not see it that way. He is not impressed with his own handiwork. As an artist might look at all of his work and choose one painting that is dearest to his heart, so God has chosen us to be the apple of His eye, His treasure, His most valued work of art. We are His workmanship created in Christ Jesus. Remember, it was only after God created man that He looked at creation and said it was, “Very good.”
Jesus taught us that sometimes, the most seemingly worthless things are the most worthwhile things. He found it worthwhile to leave heaven, become a servant to evil mankind, and then be innocently crucified by them… and for them. He felt it worthwhile to bestow upon us, in abundance, the treasures and blessings of heaven, forgiveness, acceptance, enlightenment and so much more. Why? Because of love? Because it pleased Him? Because of relationship? Oh that we could grasp and understand “What is the width, length, depth and height… to know the love of Christ that passes knowledge that we may be filled with the fullness of God.”
Take the time today to lavish your love and praise upon your Savior who stopped at no cost to bring you close to Him. He holds you near His heart as His most valued treasure.
Pastor Josh
