Beauty for Ashes

[Jeremiah 61:3, NASB "To grant those who mourn in Zion, Giving them a garland instead of ashes, The oil of gladness instead of mourning, The mantle of praise instead of a spirit of fainting. So they will be called oaks of righteousness, The planting of the LORD, that He may be glorified"] The brevity of life and fragile condition can at times feel overwhelming. It can come in many forms such as: a natural disaster, life threatening illness, loneliness, despair or even confusion. It may seem as though hope is lost and cannot be regained.

In considering the beauty of life the smallest flower brings forth a unique image of beauty; yet, if looked closer upon you can see its fragile state. A harsh wind can tear it or destroy it, a plague can mar its image or someone may pluck it out ending its brief life. We are as this flower, for all its beauty we carry many burdens may hinder our ability to glorify the Lord. Yet, if even for a brief moment our lives displayed a beauty we missed; others, may see it and be thankful for it. It may have given them a glimpse of hope strong enough to carry them through another day.

My prayer for you: May God who is generous to forgive grant you the strength and courage to stand. May He change your ashes for beauty and fill you with the oil of gladness. May your beauty be seen by the person who needs it most and may it be a beacon of light used to bring others to the grace and mercy seat of our Lord. You are not here by accident. You are here right now to fulfill His purpose for this generation.