-
We ask, “Where does God fit into the story of my life?”
The real question is, “Where does my little life fit into the great story of God’s mission?”
~Christopher J. H. Wright
-
Recap: On February 22, I started something in my life that I knew would challenge, stretch and teach me. I gave up beauty products.
No makeup, perfume, nail polish, flat irons, curling irons, lotions for 40 days.
I did this because I had become so used to only relating to what society tells us is beautiful. I knew in my heart that none of these things define me or what true beauty is, but knew I would have to do more than try to convince myself, if I was ever going to truly understand.
I began to journal. Everyday I would write something beautiful in my life, that did not have to do with outward appearance. Some of the truly beautiful things I discovered:
* unintentionally inspiring people you know
* people coming to Christ
* going to those who can not come to you
* laughter
* wisdom
* passion
* legs to go for Christ
* helping the poor & needy
* valuing people
* singing praises to the Lord
* supporting friends
* spontaneity
* the tongue: to encourage & share the Gospel
* appreciation
* inspiring people you have never met
* striving towards a goal
* being in love
* longtime friendships
* fellowship with other Christ followers
* the love & bond of family
* deep level conversations
* obedience to Christ
* being content in Christ in times of singleness
* being patient for His timing
* trusting Him in all aspects of life
* taking care of my body
* spending time alone with God
* serving humbly without recognition
* becoming a new creation in ChristReflecting:
They say it takes 21 days to create a habit. It didn’t work with writing, but it did work in helping me rediscover things in my life that are beautiful. In looking back through my journal, I have been learning what beauty is in my life. Yes, I’ll admit, the first day I could, I got a french pedicure, wore mascara, and straightened my hair, because I’m still a girly-girl and love those things, BUT I now know that it is not, and will never be my looks that define me or who I am in Christ.The most beautiful thing I’ve realized during this experience was leading up to a day of remembering that technically takes place after the conclusion of lent.
The most beautiful thing that I have realized is that I am UGLY.
I am ugly, sinful, prideful, and nothing on my own, butbecause of the blood & sacrifice of my PERFECT, BEAUTIFUL, & BLAMELESS SAVIOR who has become everything to me, I am redeemed & made free and a BEAUTIFUL CREATION IN CHRIST.
