Self Portraits

        One phrase that keeps appearing over and over in my mind is one that Jesus says when meeting the Samaritan woman at the well- “If you knew the gift of God”.  There have been many moments throughout life when I have wished for something else, whether it be a different talent or a different situation in life.  These wishes often hinder me from rejoicing in the moment and in all the gifts that have been bestowed most generously on my unworthy head. 
*Note: be prepared for a lengthy art metaphor*
        In my drawing class, we’re starting on self portraits, and I couldn’t help but realize how easy it is to distort certain attributes such that when we step back and look at what we’ve drawn, it can look nothing like our reflection.  Too often do we women focus on parts of ourselves that we view in a negative light and forget to remember the unique beauty of ourselves.  That if we were to change a part of us that God has made specifically for us, our overall depiction would be lacking. 
        God has not only blessed us abundantly individually, He has blessed the world through us.  Your individual creation has changed history forever.  If we only knew the gift of God, if we only knew the gift we are to others, I do not believe  we could stop the light of Christ from shining through us for all to see.  I think it is important for each of us to go before God and present our self portraits to Him and see if it is an accurate depiction of our reflection of Christ.  He will work with our mistakes and show us how it ought to be, how the true beauty can be revealed.  It will be our choice whether or not to take His words to heart and use the tools He has given us.  And if we do, when we present the finished work before the Teacher, we most certainly will not fail.   



Your sister in Christ,
Jenny