Examining What We Really Value

By Carson Gunn

This past year has been one of profound change for me: pregnancy, welcoming my first child, and embracing the joys and challenges of new parenthood. Becoming responsible for a precious life has made me more aware than ever that the world we live in is not as God intended. We are in need of Jesus’ redemption, and we are called to act against injustice. Today's readings reinforce this call.   
 
In Leviticus, the Sabbath Year and Year of Jubilee served as social reset mechanisms, ensuring no one remained in poverty and preventing the overworking of the land. Jesus references this concept in Luke 4:15-21, calling us to embrace generosity and justice. This challenges us today to build equitable communities and to care for the Earth entrusted to us.   
 
Psalm 53 speaks to the sorrow of living in a broken world. In an era of constant bad news, it is easy to feel hopeless. Yet the Psalmist reminds us to trust in God's justice—evil may seem unchecked, but God holds ultimate accountability.   
 
In Revelation, John mistakenly worships an angel delivering God's message, only to be reminded that God alone is worthy of worship. While we may not bow to angels today, we often idolize status symbols, political figures, or curated social media lives. This reading calls us to center our hearts on God, allowing us to see and serve those in need.   
 
Despite their different contexts, these passages share a common truth: we live in a fallen world, but God calls us to seek justice and restoration. While Jesus is the ultimate source of redemption, we are responsible for reflecting His love by uplifting others and honoring His creation.   
 
This Lenten season invites us to examine what we truly value. Instead of chasing empty idols, we can choose to care for our communities, steward the world around us, and live out God's justice.