Is God worthy….that’s a rhetorical question, a question which begins a process of flipping our thinking on its head. The rhetorical question suggests we are looking for an answer outside the parameters of the question. In Scripture this idea is referred to as “the wideness”, an answer bigger and better than the definitive answer we may have in mind. Jesus often used this “wideness” when answering his critics who were trying to trap him, or in response to the temptations of the devil after the 40 day fast in the desert. Many times, Jesus’ audience was treated to a parable which authorized each listener to reach conclusions on their own, conclusions they could understand.   

Realizing I’m not bound by the Church, I’m not making a statement of doctrine or dogma, I’m writing an essay which only points in a direction. The only approval I would seek from the Church is that what I’m writing would not lead a person into sin. It’s not about truthfulness, that’s a different conversation. I am making observations and drawing conclusions. From this point of view, truth is an inflated ego statement from a position of right or wrong. I’m only looking for what is pointing to the truth, not a statement of truth.  Jesus came for the sinful not the righteous, so the conclusion is, those of us who are “undeserving” are paradoxically more deserving of His love, forgiveness, comfort and aid. I am asking you to stop and examine these questions for yourself. Are you grateful for all your blessings and your gifts? Do you constantly thank God for His goodness, His grace…….of course you do…….so the conclusion is…….it’s not who you are, it’s Who He is. So, what’s the height of paradox……”it is what it isn’t”. If you see yourself as unworthy and God sees you as worthy, then the conclusion is, you are putting yourself ahead of God.  If God is for sure and for certain, the what might be, is for sure. Your hope is for what you pray for; your hope is for what could be…not so with God. He is for sure and for certain… God hopes the people who need the most help. Your mission, in our ego driven world, is to help the people who need hope.