Refocus
by Darren Hewer
Also available as a podcast at: http://thelife.com/blogs/experience/kindle/2008/04/18/refocus-2/
** Refocus by taking our online interactive Bible study on the book of 1 Peter: http://thelife.com/study/1peter.html
In October 1988, an Eskimo hunter discovered three Gray whales trapped beneath the ice near Barrow, Alaska. Normally the whales would have died, but the story became an international media sensation. Over 150 reporters from many countries all over the world gave daily updates of the elaborate rescue effort, which involved both the US and Russian governments working together to free the trapped mammals. The rescue effort and media reporting cost between $5 and $6 million dollars.
Now, I have nothing against whales. The rescue effort was both noble and inspiring. Yet I can’t help but wonder how often we consider how God feels about our zeal for relatively unimportant things? If we are concerned for the whales, should we not be so much more concerned for our fellow man? See for example Luke 12:6-7:
"What is the price of five sparrows? A couple of pennies? Yet God does not forget a single one of them. And the very hairs on your head are all numbered. So don’t be afraid; you are more valuable to him than a whole flock of sparrows."
People are most valuable because we are made in God’s image, and have a unique opportunity to have fellowship with our Lord. God loves us all equally and there is no partiality in Him. We to are called not just to love one another, but work for the care of all God’s children.
Jesus instructs the disciples on serving in John 21:15-19: "Feed my lambs." "Take care of my sheep." "Feed my sheep." and finally "Follow me!" As a Christian community, we should be ready to use our gifts and talents whenever the need arises. The smallest act of kindness can have eternal consequences, often more than we’ll ever know. For truly each one of us are truly among God’s most valuable possessions.
Question: How are all human beings valuable in God’s eyes?
About the Author: http://thelife.com/experience/devotionalformen/authors/darren-hewer/
