You are worth more than many birds. Austin Kleman, SJ reflects on Jesus sharing how much God values us and the inherent human dignity we all share. Based on the readings for the Seventh Sunday of Easter.
You are worth more than many birds. Yes, birds.
Hi, I’m Austin Kleman, and this is my One-Minute reflection.
At first, you might be thinking, Thanks? Kind of a weird compliment. But when Jesus says in Matthew’s Gospel, “You are worth more than many sparrows,” he reminds each of us of our inherent dignity and value.
Sparrows in Jesus’ time were common and cheap birds sold in markets, often to low-income families for food. So, is Jesus saying I’m only slightly more valuable than a cheap meal? No, Jesus is pointing out that if God notices each sparrow, imagine how much more God must pay attention to you.
If God cares about some sparrows, can you believe that he cares about you even more? Jesus sees you. For everything that you are and, through it all, values and cares for you.
You matter. In fact, you are worth more than many birds.
