“When I consider your heavens, the work of your fingers, the moon and the stars, which you have set in place, what is mankind that you are mindful of them, human beings that you care for them?” (8:3-4)

I wonder this a lot. Why does He care about us so much? Aren’t we a really small part of creation and prone to destruction? But there He is, relentlessly loving us, even crowning us with glory. 

I’m always a little embarrassed when I bump into my “works based acceptance” mentality. Shouldn’t I act accordingly to the grace that’s been bestowed on me? Shouldn’t I rise to the position I’ve been so graciously given? Yes, but no. I’ve got to stop ascribing value based on productivity.

Because look:

“But God will never forget the needy; the hope of the afflicted will never perish.” (9:18)

He prioritized the helpless. God does not help those who help themselves. That’s a garbage phrase. He is a Good Shepherd who dutifully cares for His sheep. Sheep are not innovative and they sure aren’t asked to pull carts. Their usefulness falls squarely on the wool they mindlessly grow and their edibility. Both God-created and sustained attributes. 

Value is value. I am valuable because I am made in God’s image and bought with Chrsits blood.

Do you know, today I started going to the “dark place” because I stayed home? A lot of our work with the refugees has changed and I’m needing to be patient as we get into another camp, then also share my work load with DTS students needing ministry hours. 

People aren’t supporting me to be inside all day. Okay, Bethany. Calm down. Also, what do I think about everyone else in the world who stayed home today?

“You have made them a little lower than the angels and crowned them with glory and honor. You made them rulers over the works of your hands; you put everything under their feet:” (8:5-6)

He first gave us glory and honor, then gave us a task: stewarding creation. 

Oh Lord, cover me with your grace. Help me to be gracious with myself and others. Teach us all to adore you and look to you for our value and purpose. Give us your compassion for the needy.

-Bethany