{ “God Uses Everything.” :: Art Print, available on Etsy in February 2013 }
For the longest time, I gave so much energy and emotion over to what I call the “wasted years”, years I spent wandering around in despair, going after degrees and new careers, not knowing about this rich creative life that I had inside of me all along.
In time I came to realize and accept that the parts of my life I felt were useless tatters, non-successes, attempts that ended in failure, ungraceful falls—the shameful stuff—were precious to God, and not only that, but utterly redeemable.
Isn’t it after all the old, worn, holey pieces of ratty paper I treasure more than something shiny and new? Isn’t it the falling apart books with the binding coming undone that I clutch to my chest and can’t wait to salvage and set into an already envisioned new collage? And isn’t He himself the Great Creator?
He did not and does not look upon me with disdain or disappointment...no! And because our sins are made whiter than snow by Jesus himself, He doesn’t see you that way either.
He sees a dearly loved child—YOU (and me)—someone He longs to hold in bear hug, all while whispering in your ear, “Don’t you worry. Nothing is ever wasted. I cherish everything you have gone through. There is purpose and meaning and redemption in all of it, so don’t you fret.”
12 When they had all had enough to eat, he said to his disciples, “Gather the pieces that are left over. Let nothing be wasted.” ~John 6:12-14 (NIV)
Thank you...I needed to read this, my friend. <3
Posted by: Beth | February 10, 2013 at 06:08 PM
i am so glad, dear beth. you are loved <3
Posted by: Jan Avellana | February 10, 2013 at 08:37 PM