Value is a term that is usually associated with how much something is worth in money. However, another definition according to Webster is that value is to rate or scale something in usefulness or importance. Also, when something is valued it is held in high regard or greatly appreciated. The definition of value that states it is to rank things in importance reminds me of the definition of priority. Priority is to rank in importance or preference and is the quality or state of coming before another in time.
There’s nothing wrong with having materialistic things that are valuable, but when these things, including money are being held at a higher priority than personal relationships problems are likely to arise. In today’s fast-paced society it is very easy to lose sight of what is really important and for our priorities to get out of kilter.
Relationships are what I am suggesting to be of most value. How we relate to God, family, friends, acquaintances, and society should be of importance to us. It has been said that there is no greater love than to lay one’s life down for a friend. But, it probably will not be often we will get a chance to step in front of an out-of-control bus, or flying bullets to let others know that we truly love them and care for them.
Could it be possible to lay down whatever is keeping us too busy to be with a friend? Is it possible to lay down our desires and efforts to have more materialistic things for family and friends that we tend to neglect? Sometimes we may attempt to rationalize our efforts to get more things by saying, “I’m doing this for you, or for us.” However, it would be better put this way, “I’m working so hard, spending so much time away, neglecting my relationships to get in debt for things that I think will make us happy.”
There is nothing wrong with having “things” and striving for them to an extent. It is just when we put getting things above our relationships is when problems can arise. Take a look at what you are holding valuable in your life and determine how valuable it is. Is it, or are they worth it to you to lay your life down? Isn’t it awesome to think that each of us have One that did choose to lay His life down for us. Whether you believe it or not we are all created in the image of God and that makes us special, worth something, and very valuable.
Originally written 10-20-99 —TRS
Rays of Hope 