Value & Sacrifice

The value of a life. How much is a life worth? Thinking about Christmas, the coming of God in flesh in the person of Jesus Christ to save us from sin and eternal damnation- separation from Himself for eternity. Were you worth that sacrifice? Is anybody? What depth of love God displayed to us in sending such a gift! Would you give your life for another? Have you ever been tested in this? I want to brag on my wife, Paula. She was willing to set aside her life and desires to take care of her mother for nine years. She gave up, for the most part, doing what she wanted to do for the sake of another. She couldn't move to another house or town, she couldn't have company over, and she was limited in her activities. She was, however, able to be involved in church life. Living life in one room of a house is not unlike being imprisoned, but she did it willingly. Me? I just went along for the ride and to be supportive. She also had to put up with me taking jobs I could find since we were out of place. Now, she is being tested again. What is my mother's life worth? Is her life worth the cost of travel? Of being apart? Of lost wages? Evidently, she has decided in her heart that she is. Years ago, taking care of family and setting aside your own life/goals/aspirations was a common thing. People willingly sacrificed for others. In our society today, many are too self-centered and selfish to put another person's life and wellbeing ahead of their own. They farm the care of loved ones out to someone else so they can do what they want to do. I am extremely lucky to be married to a person who is "old school" in her thinking about family. There is nothing she wouldn't do for her family- especially her daughters. Where does she get this internal motivation for love and self-sacrifice? After all, I know there are days she doesn't "feel like it." I would submit to you that her motivation comes from God Himself, and the example set by Jesus Christ. As we approach the celebration of Christ's birthday, think about those in your life that display a Christ-like outlook on life, and tell them thank you! Think about your own life. Would you willingly lay it down for another? May the grace, mercy, and peace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you! Merry Christmas! December, 2017