Acknowledge the Dust

Today’s Reflection

IN POINTING TO THE DUST, Jesus also points to the origin of life. From dust, God has formed human beings. (See Genesis 2:7.) From the commonness of dust arises the complexity and mystery of human life. As we acknowledge our shared humanity, we let go of the illusion that we are more or less valuable than other people. Our identity as dust can help us to be mindful of our place in relation to God and mindful of the capacity for life. We can rest in the comforting truth that we are dust, knowing that it is God who breathes life into us. We can stop categorizing, labeling, and trying to decide who is most and least saved. Such an acknowledgment transforms us and allows us to realize our full potential and be filled with the life God intends. Each person is complex, surprising, and full of potential for change and growth. But first, we have to acknowledge the dust.

—Angela D. Schaffner
Revealed: What the Bible Can Teach You About Yourself