How Valuable Am I?

Associated Press baseball writer Ronald Blum began an article recently with a stunning statistic. Surprisingly, it had nothing to do with batting averages, RBI’s, or fielding percentages. This particular statistic involved salaries. Notice, if you will, the opening words of Mr. Blum’s article: “Alex Rodriguez makes more this year than his hometown Florida Marlins. Boosted by his new deal with the New York Yankees, A-Rod tops the major league baseball salary list at $28 million, according to a study of contract terms by The Associated Press. The 33 players on the Marlins’ opening-day roster and disabled list total $21.8 million” (sports.yahoo.com). How incredible is that? One man making more in salary than an entire team. I suppose one could argue that Mr. Rodriguez is grossly overpaid for his baseball abilities. Granted, he is a very talented player, but should he be paid more for his services than an entire team of players? On the other hand, one could argue that Florida Marlins are grossly underpaying their players. Wouldn’t it be a bit demoralizing to realize that one single player on an opposing team is being paid more than your entire team combined?

Christians in Corinth argued among themselves about who was more valuable to the cause of Christ. These cliquish brethren were proud of their ties to prominent brethren, their knowledge and their giftedness. Sadly, these attitudes caused terrible division in their congregation. According to the apostle Paul, the solution to their problem would only come when they readjusted their attitudes and actions. In chapter 12, he reminds them that their true value is to be found, not in their human associations, abilities or accomplishments, but in their spiritual relationship to God and to one another. True spiritual value is found not found in exalting ourselves over another, but in working together for our common good.

How thankful I am to be part of a team where my value is not measured by human standards. May God help me to be valuable in His eyes!

God loves you!

Mike