The Worth of a Man

O fellow sojourner in this darkened world, why should you lie in misery? For what cause shall your marrow be dried up within you by your spirit’s distress? Why, in your eyes, should your life as a vapor fade into nothing? Be still. My friend, shall I tell you of your worth?

To what shall I compare the worth of a man amongst a throng of men? Men ruthless and tender, brawny and weak, hypocritical and transpicuous: each follows his own path in this world, darkened by the sin in his heart. They walk here forgetful, loving but little, strong in self-interested joy. How shall I judge you by men of this world? Are you not esteemed or as worthless as they? Who is worthy of honor or praises of men when a man just the same as another? Ah yes! For pursuits and for trophies claimed, the worth of a man might be weighed. Yet for all the world’s riches and fame ‘cross the land, no fulfillment in trinkets does lay. No gold, silver or diamonds could but brighten a coffer or grant burdens of envy and shame. A high house full of servants, approval of princes, all trophies: they come and are spent. All existing outside us our hearts give the weight of value or odium bare.

To what shall I compare the worth of a man, in tales both fiction and true? One’s deeds surely shine as a star to another, and others are chaff in the wind. Great heroes, all valiant and prideful and strong, inspire the eye of the humble. Yet the humble man’s heart, so wonderfully rare, may arouse the respect of the great. In fiction subduing a beast or a kingdom or winning a fair maiden’s heart are as common as clouds in the sky. But we marvel and worship the conqueror brave. Consider what fantasy lives to the true; compare it with life in your heart. What can be compared to the passion, adventure, and risk in one real human life? Each has giants, depraved powers and self he must face and conquer without sword or spear. Seeking allies on the journey and vigilant of foes the true man daily braves the dark world. You my friend are no different. Each day the world gives a new challenge to meet, and this day yours sorrow and pain.

To what shall I compare the worth of a man, whom the Limitless King has most prized? Our world is a marble that spins in His hand, yet within it His most cherished gems. Each darkened man’s soul is a treasure so dear, no effort or endowment was spared. All was given to win you, the best gifts of heaven: the Infinite Son, your victories won, and the choice to be free or enslaved. You, whom the King does adore, have worth so much more than your darkened awareness could tell. Omnipotence, the universe, all things and all time are not this day more precious than thee. All He would sacrifice, nothing too great, if your life might find peace and true ecstasy. Behold here is your worth in the eyes of the LORD, unchangeable for all of time. Without price, without measure, or limit or reserve: you are most valued of all.