“You are ugly.”
I heard that often as a child.
Each uniquely designed by the Master of Creation…
As a mom, I long for our 7 kids to be grateful for how they are each unique
in a world that idolizes sameness.
beauty of diversity that weaves us into a work of His art.
As a child, some peers were mean. Some were cruel.
In that season, I’d accepted that belief that I was ugly.
I was a white, Christian girl in a culture where Islam was the mandated religion and most had beautiful olive skin.
It often felt “normal” to be on the outside.
My coloring was different and stood out loud.
My love for Jesus was different too- dangerously different.
I knew that others had died and many were severely punished in the beloved country I called “home” because they believed an
illegal religion.
Yet,
because of being different, my eyes were refocused-
I still recall those healing words settling into my mind:
“Stop seeking Love- Because you are already loved beyond measure by the One who gave all for you.
Instead,
seek to give love.”
These words changed my life!
is perfect-
we are free to
seek opportunities to give this love away-
with no strings attached.
With His love of you as you are, let Him turn your pain into purpose and then
Rock your differences- all of them- no matter the shade, shape or design or challenge or scar you have been gifted with.
Don’t fall for shame or fear or striving to please people- not peers, not professors, not pastors, not the public, not even parents.
Loved beyond your capacity by the One who designed your unique DNA.
Through awareness of His LOVE for you,
you will come to understand that different is an incredible gift.
Don’t miss out because of what you think others want you to be.
Go change the world- not your differences.
Rock your differences. They are beautiful in His hands.
And I’ve got to say,
fear not a broken heart.
He will be close.
Invited to Walk on Water 