"Are you not of more value than they?"
Matthew 6:26
Have you ever had an opportunity to watch the television program Antique Roadshow? People will bring items that they bought in yard sales or inherited to the show to find out what the articles are worth. These items range from the truly fascinating to the absolutely weird. The highlight of the show is when people find out that the painting that they bought at an estate sale for $50 is actually a masterpiece that would command thousands of dollars at an auction. This seemingly worthless piece of art that has hung in the closet for several years is now a very prized possession.
There is something to consider that is often overlooked. The items that are brought to the show only have value because someone is willing to pay that price. Any piece of artwork is simply canvas and paint. The value comes when an individual says that they want it and attaches a certain monetary amount to it. If no one is willing to purchase it, the item is of no value.
Jesus told us to not worry about our lives. We worry about so many things that are ordinary: what to eat, what to drink, what to wear, etc. We put way too much value in our stuff, our possessions, our circumstances, and our surroundings. The external things of this life seemingly blind us to the things that really matter. We base the value of self on what we have or don't have, what we eat or drink, what we wear, who we know, or what talents we have. Our value is inextricably defined by what others think of us. This unhealthy view of life has led people to destructive habits, debt, eating disorders, and unhealthy religious practices. Our value system is completely messed up. The professional athlete that can throw a ball is worth millions while the teacher that labors each day with special education students is paid a minimal salary.
Jesus knew that this was how man perceived themselves and others, so He showed us how valuable we were to Him. He illustrated it by giving us the examples of a tiny sparrow and a lily in the field. We can look at these two things and see the tender hand of God. In both of them there is the beauty and glory of God's creation. Neither of them spends time worrying about their value. They simply live according to the provision of their Creator.
Remember the painting at the Antique Roadshow? It was only valuable because someone would pay a high price for it. 2,000 years ago, God through His Son, Jesus Christ, demonstrated how valuable you and I were to Him. He gave the ultimate price for us, His life. You are not valuable because of what you have but because of who you are to the Lord. He loves you and considers you more valuable than you could ever imagine!
May you recognize your worth in Christ today!
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