Last here, first there, disabled here, enabled there.

We all are created equal, in terms of our heavenly opportunity and we all have equal access to God, but some people, on earth, seem to have big advantages (strength, good looks, quick on their feet and with the eyesight of an eagle), while others have none of those things. It is a very easy thing to be “first”, to have all of the advantages or at least that appears to be the case. But let’s examine what the Bible says about those who have the most advantages.  Listen to the words of Jesus:

“For everyone to whom much is given, from him much will be required; and to whom much has been committed, of him they will ask the more”. Luke 12:48. NKJV

We could look at this teaching and say, “Boy, I am sure glad I don’t have much” believing little is expected of you. Money, fame intelligence, speaking ability, and dexterity are all gifts from God. But re-read the words of Jesus up above; do you think all of those gifts carry no particular obligation? What if you were the person with any or all of those gifts? What would you think that God expects of you?

On the other hand, if someone has very few of the visible gifts, does it seem God lets them off the hook? Are they are able to coast along and do nothing, or very little, that would bring honor to God? Can you think of any person who has none or few or these visible gifts, yet they have shown their love for God and man in a very special way?

Yes, there are people who are severely disadvantaged or handicapped here. But listen to how God sees these people: "…God will wipe away every tear from their eyes; there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying. There shall be no more pain, for the former things have passed away." Revelation 7:17. NKJV

The Apostle Paul expressed the same concept when he said: For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us. Romans 8:18-19. NKJV

That does not mean that suffering here should seem good. It does mean that God understands and that He has prepared a role for those who are disadvantaged. Listen: “And indeed there are last who will be first, and there are first who will be last.". Luke 13:30 NKJV. Discuss what it might mean to be first here and last there and vice versa? When could being first here have a bad ending?  Listen to Jesus:

“But he who is greatest among you shall be your servant. And whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted”. Matthew 23:11-12. NKJV
And... "I will make the lame a remnant and the outcast a strong nation; so the LORD will reign over them in Mount Zion from now on, even forever”. Micah 4:7. NKJV

For more on this topic, go to www.jewnumberone.com, ch.37, The Lame, the Deaf and Those Who are “Last” will Emerge as “First”.

Core Christian Value: God loves every soul He created, whether we are fast or slow, blind or not blind, lame or not lame, coordinated or not coordinated; we are all equal before God.