God never gives a 1st prize
Soul Snack 107/10 ... Elusive Elitism
The highly polished floorboards hardly groan. This lithe figure steps lightly. Elegant in her fresh school uniform, she walks gracefully across the stage.
This moment captured forever by eager parents, and even more eager grandparents. Dux of the school was a moment to be savoured. Appropriately, this achievement is honoured. The guest dignitary stood with his hand generously extended. The award was received with great and due pride. Accolades all around, heads held high. Abundant backslapping would accompany, during the subsequent celebratory supper.
The wheelchair-bound student receives no attention. Quietly he sits with his parents. His year had held no highlights. Although sound of mind, he battled the pain of constant sitting. Throughout the year, frequently repeated attempts at physical therapy had failed. His work often interrupted, his mind clouded in pain.
Such diligent efforts, such self application, such distressing faithfulness had received no honour. His grades met no recognition. His withered person found no applause. The truth was that he had actually worked even harder, but enjoyed less success.
God never gives a first prize. Elitism eludes God. What God sees man does not. God is always far more interested in my attention than my achievement. He knows my best efforts, and will bless accordingly.
Suppose a man comes into your meeting wearing a gold ring and fine clothes, and a poor man in shabby clothes also comes in. If you show special attention to the man wearing fine clothes and say, "Here's a good seat for you," but say to the poor man, "You stand there" or "Sit on the floor by my feet," have you not discriminated among yourselves and become judges with evil thoughts? (James 2:2-4)