The Least of Theseনমুনা

God places high value on those whom the world devalues

As created beings, we don’t have the perspective, knowledge, or wisdom to determine who is valuable and who is not – and every attempt made by mankind to do that has ended in tragedy. So let us enjoy God’s perspective!

For this is what the high and exalted One says— he who lives forever, whose name is holy: 'I live in a high and holy place, but also with the one who is contrite and lowly in spirit, to revive the spirit of the lowly and to revive the heart of the contrite.' Isaiah 57:15

These are the ones I look on with favor: those who are humble and contrite in spirit, and who tremble at my word. Isaiah 66:2

So, who are the contrite? Contrite can be translated as “crushed.” Like grapes crushed to make juice or wine, the process is painful, but the results are wonderful. No one wants to be the one crushed underfoot, but they are the ones who produce a fragrant aroma. God never looks at us the way the world does; man looks at the outward appearance, but God looks at the heart.

Who is more innocent and beautiful than little children? Here is what Jesus says about them, including the pre-born and the disabled.

Therefore, whoever takes the lowly position of this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. Matthew 18:4

Again, in Matthew 18:6,

If anyone causes one of these little ones—those who believe in me—to stumble, it would be better for them to have a large millstone hung around their neck and to be drowned in the depths of the sea.

Could we really be arrogant enough to put aside, throw away, or demean one of these? Jesus says in Matthew 18:10,

See that you do not despise one of these little ones. For I tell you that their angels in heaven always see the face of my Father in heaven,

and in Matthew 18:14,

your Father in heaven is not willing that any of these little ones should perish.

So I will come to put you on trial. I will be quick to testify against sorcerers, adulterers and perjurers, against those who defraud laborers of their wages, who oppress the widows and the fatherless, and deprive the foreigners among you of justice, but do not fear me,” says the Lord Almighty. Malachi 3:5

Reflection: It is wonderful to know that God values the downtrodden as much as the exalted – maybe even more, but if I am disabled, discriminated against, or helpless, is there a way out for me? Yes – and enjoy the next two devotionals as examples of what is possible for those who seemingly have no hope.