In a world that often measures worth by material possessions or societal status, it’s easy to lose sight of the true value of human beings. Yet, when we look at the teachings of Jesus and the overarching narrative of Scripture, we find a profound truth: every person carries immeasurable worth in God’s eyes.
Consider the parables Jesus told in Luke 15. A shepherd leaves 99 sheep to find one lost lamb. A woman turns her house upside down searching for a single lost coin. And perhaps most poignantly, a father eagerly awaits the return of his wayward son, running to embrace him before he can even utter an apology. These stories aren’t just about lost items or family drama – they’re vivid illustrations of how God sees and values each individual soul.
The religious leaders of Jesus’ day struggled to understand why He associated with “sinners” and outcasts. But Jesus’ actions and teachings consistently emphasized a revolutionary idea: every person, regardless of their past or present circumstances, bears the image of God and is worthy of love, pursuit, and celebration.
This concept of human value isn’t confined to the New Testament. We see it woven throughout Scripture, from the very beginning. In Genesis 1:27, we read: “So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them.” This foundational truth sets the stage for how we should view ourselves and others.
The Psalmist David marveled at the intricate care God takes in forming each person: “For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made” (Psalm 139:13-14). This isn’t just poetic language; it’s a profound recognition of the value God places on human life.
But how do we cultivate this perspective in our own lives? How do we train ourselves to see others as God sees them, especially when it’s challenging? The answer lies in an often-overlooked spiritual discipline: the discipline of community.
Community, in its truest sense, is more than just a group of people who gather occasionally. It’s about “expressing and reflecting the self-donating love of the Trinity by investing in and journeying with others.” (Definition from the Spiritual Formation Handbook) This definition captures the essence of what God calls us to – a deep, committed relationship with fellow believers that mirrors the love and unity found within the Godhead itself.
In our modern world, it’s all too easy to surround ourselves only with those who think, act, and look like us. When conflicts arise or differences emerge, we’re often quick to distance ourselves or find a new social circle. But this approach robs us of the transformative power of true community.
When we commit to journeying with others over the long haul – through disagreements, challenges, and seasons of life – something profound happens. We begin to see the image of God more clearly in those around us. We learn to extend grace, to listen, to value relationships over being “right.” And as we do this within our close community, it begins to change how we view all people.
Working through difficulties in community teaches us to give others the benefit of the doubt. It cultivates compassion and understanding. Most importantly, it helps us see the inherent value in each person, just as God does.
This isn’t always easy. Community requires investment, vulnerability, and often inconvenience. It means being there for others when it’s not convenient, sharing in their joys and sorrows, and allowing them to do the same for us. But the rewards are immeasurable.
As we engage in genuine community, we don’t just grow closer to each other – we grow closer to God. As Justin Early wisely noted, “You cannot experience God the way you were made to until you experience him alongside others.” There’s something uniquely powerful about pursuing God together, sharing insights, struggles, and victories along the way.
Imagine how different the story of the prodigal son might have been if the older brother had been in true community with his father. Instead of resenting his younger sibling’s return, he might have shared in his father’s joy, understanding the depth of love and longing the father had carried all along.
The ultimate expression of human value is found in the cross of Christ. God sent His only Son to die not just for a select few, but for all of humanity. This sacrificial act demonstrates the lengths to which God will go to pursue and redeem each person.
As we reflect on these truths, we’re challenged to examine our own lives. How deeply are we committed to Christian community? Are we part of a small group where we can invest in others and allow them to invest in us? Are we willing to stay connected even when it’s difficult, trusting that God will use these relationships to shape us?
The invitation is clear: to see others as God sees them, we must engage in genuine, committed community. It’s through these relationships that our perspective is transformed, our capacity for love and understanding grows, and we begin to grasp the immeasurable worth of every person created in God’s image.
As we take steps toward deeper community, may we find our hearts and minds renewed. May we learn to celebrate the value of each person we encounter, recognizing the divine fingerprints on every soul. And in doing so, may we reflect more fully the heart of our Creator, who sees us all as precious, worthy of pursuit, and deeply loved.
Sermon Recaps are based on my original messages delivered at Grace Christian Church.
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