Why can’t we see in ourselves what we see in nature?
This pretty little bird stopped me in my tracks with its red cap and striking feathers.
And as I approached, it made no attempt to fly away. So I, along with my kids stood still, admiring the bold characteristics of an animal we don’t often have the opportunity to catch more than a glimpse of.
The bird was clearly injured, unable to fly. Grounded when all the other birds were in flight.
And yet, despite its obvious flaws, we observed every detail with a sense of awe and wonder.
This sweet creature was broken, but still beautiful. Worthy of our attention. Despite its faults, the sight of it captured our interest and we could hardly pull ourselves away.
And how interesting it was to realize that we are so much like that bird. Broken. Unable to perform in ways we think we should be able to. Failing to meet expectations of those around us. Perhaps disregarded by some because of our mistakes, imperfections, inabilities or shortcomings.
We see others soaring, accomplishing, conquering, and we can feel unworthy when we seemingly hold a lower position than those around us. When we aren’t as successful. When our lives don’t turn out as planned. When we are weak, needy, at the bottom of whatever ladder stands before us.
When we are grounded from the physical, emotional and spiritual injuries of this life.
But just as we looked down at this broken bird in awe and wonder, so God looks down on us. In admiration of His beautiful creation. Yes, we are broken. And flawed. And incapable. We fail to meet the standards set by society. We feel small when we are surrounded by people who are seemingly greater, more successful, more powerful. We feel inadequate when others are stronger or prettier.
And yet, God sees us all the same. Worthy of love and admiration simply because He created us. Beautiful, because He doesn’t make mistakes. His standards do not mimic the standards of society. We do not have to live or look like everyone else in order to be valuable.
It’s easy for us to focus on the beauty of nature, even when we discover its imperfections. And yet, we forget that we ARE nature, that we are the most treasured part of God’s creation.
And no matter how broken we are, there is someONE who calls us worthy and beautiful.
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