“I am Wonderfully Made”

         The Psalmist writes, “For it was you who formed my inward parts; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made.” (Psa 139:13-14).

         I don’t know about you; but these are not the words I utter when I catch a glimpse of myself in the mirror. Well, the fearful part maybe. (When did I start looking like my grandmother??)

         But the Psalmist wants us to think this way, to consider the amazing creative action that took to get us here, the love that was breathed into us, the hope, the delight that came with us when we were being knitted together. We are truly masterpieces from the very beginning and will be so, all the way through to the end. Even when we stumble and fall, with all our bruises and scars, even when we are bent from disease and sorrow, even when we can hardly find any beauty in our reflection at all. We are marvelously made.

         You are marvelously made.

         This week I invite you to take a long look at yourself. In the mirror. No really. Just take a look. What do you see? Can you realize how God delights in you? Can you see what God sees? Can you look at yourself with these eyes of love?

         Maybe that’s a good way to start this new year, with a look. A new look. Not a new hairstyle or a few pounds lighter. Not that kind of a look. Maybe you start the year with a new look at yourself. A way of looking at yourself that doesn’t belittle or criticize or make fun of what you see. A look that honors exactly who you are and who you were created to be. Take a long look at who it is God loves, who it is God has created.

         And then…say thank you. Thank you, Great Creator, for making me exactly as you made me, for helping me to become this me you had in mind in the most early days.

         And then…see that God-delight in every person who comes across your path. Recognize their beauty and the Creator’s delight in them. For they too, just like you, are made in that same wonder and love.

         Aren’t we all amazing? 

You are the light of the world!

Warmly,

Lynne

The Service of Lament is now monthly. First Thursday of the month, next service is February 1, 2024

Service of Lament, First Thursday of the month at Noon

First Presbyterian Church Chapel (Park on North side of Church)

215 Locust Street NE

Albuquerque, NM 87102