Since the dawn of man, cultures have elevated certain people above everyone else. Our hearts recognize that we must direct ourselves to something higher, and often we place other individuals above us in order to fulfill these innate desires. In the Roman Empire, for example, Caesar was not just the ruler of the known world, he was divine. In Nazi Germany, Hilter was not just the head of state, he was “the Führer” (i.e. the Leader).

Our own country likes to think that it is beyond such foolishness; we rejected the shackles of royalty and live in a democratic wonderland where no one is exalted above any other. But of course that is nonsense: our culture loves to elevate anyone and everyone it can, from Hollywood actors to sports figures to politicians. We are desperate to look up to someone as greater than ourselves.

But, sadly, we almost always look the wrong way. The Scriptures tell us again and again that God exalts the humble and humbles the exalted. However, instead of looking to emulate those who humble themselves, we only look at those who exalt themselves. In heaven, I think it will be shocking to see who are the apples of God’s eye.

I think this young woman, who was born almost exactly a year after me and only lived to be 18, will be one of those who shine brighter than any actor, athlete or politician:

Read her amazing story here ^[1].