Beauty

I recently finished a book called "Jonathan Edwards on Beauty" by Owen Strachan and Doug Sweeney. Jonathan Edwards was a theologian during the 18th century and this book reflects on some of his writings on beauty.

The Beauty of God, Creation, Christ, the Church and the Trinitarian Afterlife. In the chapter about the beauty of the Church the authors say:

"...All too often in Christian circles, we mimic the world in esteeming the "best and brightest" and passing over those with less apparent value. This is a shameful mistake, one that robs believers of their sense of worth and agency. Every believer is a "drop" of beauty in the great display of God's character and thus can use his or her spiritual gifts and natural abilities in the service of the church of Christ (1 Peter 2:9) 

Furthermore, every person, regardless of race or background, age or occupation, is equally beautiful and lovely to the Lord. The history of Christianity shows that all to often Christians have discriminated against fellow believers just as the world discriminates among itself. Whenever possible, Christians should work to visibly demonstrate the unity of the church by overcoming racial, social, and economic boundaries..."

Growing up in church I often felt not talented enough, not gifted enough, not well spoken enough. Nothing about me really stood out and so to read this and remember that I am beautiful to God was very encouraging. God does love us, and we can come to Him just as we are. It's good to remember we are beautiful because He is our Father.




Buy it HERE on Amazon