Everyone Counts

Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer had a very shiny nose.

We all know the story.  In my opinion, Rudolph is one of the best classic Christmas movies. 

After being told he could not play in any Reindeer Games due to his glowing nose, Rudolph sets out on a fantastic journey where he meets Hermey the elf, prospector Yukon Cornelius and a host of Misfit Toys, all while trying to hide from the Abominable Snow Monster.

As you know, Rudolph had a nose that would glow bright red. His nose got him unwanted attention and ridicule from the other young reindeer that were in training to guide Santa’s sleigh.

Rudolph is eventually so hurt by the things that the other reindeer say about him that he runs away.

As a huge storm comes in, Santa Claus is concerned that there will be no Christmas because the storm is so bad they can’t see where they are going in the sleigh.

That is, until, they find Rudolph, and he uses his glowing nose to light the way.  He becomes the hero in the story, and saves Christmas.

What Rudolph learns about himself, and eventually others learn about him too, is that even though he is different, he still has value.

Everyone counts.

God created each of us with special gifts and skills. Not one of us is here by accident.

The world often teaches that if someone is different, has different capabilities, or can’t provide for us in a way that we think they should… they have no value to us.

Worldly community is all about what can I get from this other person.

But, the birth of Jesus shows us that no matter our differences, we all have value in God’s eyes.  And, life isn’t about what we can get from other people… it’s about how we can bless them and show them who Jesus is.

In the story of Jesus’ birth, we see three distinct groups of people gather around baby Jesus.

Mary and Joseph- obviously they are there… they’re the parents.  Young couple, just starting their life.

The Wise Men-  Probably older, from another country, different religion and probably somewhat wealthy.

The Shepherds-  Probably not very wealthy, hard working, we can assume they weren’t very clean from working and living outside.

At first glance, these three groups don’t really have anything in common. They don’t come from the same place, have the same culture, or have the same financial and social standing.  However, they are all united by one thing… Jesus.

They can put aside their differences and gather around Jesus to worship him.  This is because in the eyes of the Lord, everyone counts.

From the hardworking, unpopular shepherd; to the wealthy wise “king”.  Jesus is the unifying factor.

God created each of us different.  We each have our own gifts, weaknesses, and stories.  Not one person on Earth is the same as another.

But, there is something that can bring us all together… the birth of Jesus and the community we find from worshipping him.

Because God loves us, and created us… we have value. Everyone has value. 

Everyone counts.