The firstborn calf of the season is kind of like the first grandbaby in a family: upon arrival, he or she is welcomed, coddled, nurtured, celebrated, adored—even a bit spoiled. Little Gracie received no balloons or teddy bears, but she instinctively knows that she’s the apple of her mama’s eye and the pride and joy of her two-legged relatives. The other cows and the yearling heifers—even the horses—admire her as well. I’m not exaggerating when I say that Gracie has no lack of self-esteem. She carries herself with an assurance that says, I’m cute, I’m loved, and I'm special. What’s not to love?
Gracie’s sense of self-worth pleases me because it’s completely innocent and free of either arrogance or false humility.
The Bible tells us over and over that we’re chosen, cherished, greatly loved, highly favored, completely forgiven, and destined to do great things for God. Many of us claim to believe in Jesus and that His Word is truth, yet we struggle to accept what He says about us because we know that we’re unworthy of such grace. Ah, but grace isn’t grace if it’s deserved or earned! Scholars define grace as “the unmerited favor and blessing of God”.
Do you want to please God? Then dare to believe Him when He says that you’re the apple of His eye, that He delights in you, that He rejoices over you, that your life has purpose. Let grace put a smile on your face and a spring in your step!
“For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago.” EPHESIANS 2:10 (NLT)
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