Did you know that there are stores that sell unclaimed luggage from airports? They get the luggage and its contents in and sell the items at a discount. You would be amazed at the seemingly valued and treasured items that people just leave behind, lose and/or never come to retrieve.

Ever feel like that? Abandoned, lost, left behind, worthless and more. You are beautiful, talented, and intelligent, but at times you feel very little worth. I recently talked to a friend that feels down and worthless. He is really amazing in many different ways, but he couldn’t see it. Actually, if you think about it, all of us at some point in life feel this way.

When the angel spoke to Mary, he said, “you have found favor with God.” In other words, he was telling Mary that she had great worth to God. She was chosen, and God was honoring her with this blessed task. Well, whether you know it or not, God has chosen you too! God is honoring you by blessing you with a divine task. What is it? Do not be afraid! You might feel as if you are unclaimed baggage today … just going round and round on a conveyor belt headed nowhere. Stop. Listen and hear God’s words of worth for you.

PRAY THIS…

God, today when I feel insecure, please remind me of my great worth to you. When I feel ordinary, remind me that is precisely the kind of person you desire and use. When I feel unclaimed, assure me of the claim you have on me through Christ Jesus. Amen.

Tim Beck is pastor of Kenbridge United Methodist Church. His email address is revtimbeck@gmail. com.