Seashells

When walking along the beach collecting seashells, hoping to find perfect specimens, I am reminded of how beautiful lives are damaged by sin, maybe physically, definitely spiritually. By looking at a piece of a shell we get a glimpse of its complexity and beauty.

Do I rinse the sand off my beautiful, broken shell and put it in my pocket to add to my collection, or see it to be of no value, throw it away and keep looking for the perfect specimen?

I am so thankful that God didn't seek perfection in me, that He seeks us with all our imperfections and works in our lives to make us into the image of His Son, Jesus Christ.

Surely this applies to our human relationships, as we encounter other people, marred by sin.  Can we accept people as they are, damaged, like ourselves, and treasure them for their inherent qualities and look for the good in them; imagining how their lives could be transformed by having a relationship with Jesus.  Or do we miss out on a friendship, by seeking perfection?

Back to the shells, if I am unable to see and enjoy beauty in the piece that I find, then my collection may never be extended and I could miss so much while hoping for the  unattainable.

How great is The Father's love for us, that though we are greatly misshapen by sin, He loves us and sees us of great value, worth redeeming and adding to His collection for His glory.

Steady, refreshing rain is falling on the Gold Coast today, reminding me of God's continued blessings in my life.

Simply Susan