Unappreciated Gifts: Free but Valuable
Have you ever wondered about the value of things that are free? Despite their inherent worth, many of us fail to recognize and appreciate the truly valuable things that don't require a price tag. This article explores some of these invaluable yet free gifts and why they remain underappreciated.
The Environment: A Gift of Life
The environment is one of the most precious yet often overlooked values we possess. Clean air, sunshine, arable land, clean water, and the diversity of animal life all contribute to our quality of life. However, it is only when these gifts are compromised or commodified that we begin to recognize and value them.
Take, for example, fresh air. It is something we often take for granted until a skyscraper is built next to our homes, potentially reducing the quality of air we breathe. Similarly, arable land and clean water, essential for sustenance, can become scarce and costly resources if environmental degradation is not addressed promptly.
Freedom and Choice: Spiritual and Ethical Gifts
A second category of valuable but free gifts is those that pertain to personal freedom and choice, especially in a world of 7 billion people. These gifts are not necessarily free, but they are negotiable, and their true value is often underappreciated. Here, we explore the significance of freedom in the spiritual realm.
L Saharaft and Self-Contentment
L Saharaft, a prominent Coptic bishop and author, discusses the importance of contentment in Christian spirituality. He emphasizes the freedom to choose one's path, whether it is to be good, living kind, gentle, merciful, or compassionate towards others. This choice, often underestimated, is a profound gift that allows individuals to live a life of joy and gratitude.
The Freedom to Choose
The story of Adam and Eve in the Bible illustrates this concept vividly. God, the father, created Adam and Eve in His own image and likeness. He gave them the freedom and choice to choose between the tree of knowledge of life and the tree of knowledge of good and evil. Jesus, as the son of God, also came to earth to show humanity the true nature of God, who is loving, kind, gentle, merciful, compassionate, and just. He shed His blood for the forgiveness of sins, healing, and freedom from evil.
Jesus died on the cross to put to death our life of sin and evil, and He rose from the dead to give us His holy life to live with. He promised to return the second time to judge man and to rule the earth from Jerusalem as His eternal capital. The freedom to choose to believe in Jesus Christ as the true God is a gift that most people do not fully appreciate.
Conclusion
These examples demonstrate that true value often lies in things that are free but not always recognized. By appreciating the environment, the power of personal choice, and the freedom to believe, we can lead more fulfilling and meaningful lives. It is essential to value these gifts and recognize the blessings they bring each day.
FAQ
Q1: Why is the environment often undervalued?
A1: Environmental resources such as clean air, fresh water, and arable land are often taken for granted until they become scarce or compromised. This is when we begin to value them more.
Q2: How can the freedom to choose impact one's life?
A2: The freedom to choose to be kind, gentle, merciful, or compassionate towards others and to thank and praise Jesus can lead to a more joyful and fulfilling life. This choice reflects the sovereignty of God and allows for personal growth and spiritual development.
Q3: In what ways can one appreciate the spiritual gift of freedom?
A3: By recognizing and cherishing the freedom to choose to believe in Jesus Christ as the true God, one can experience a deeper sense of gratitude, joy, and peace. This understanding fosters a meaningful connection with God and leads to a more purposeful life.