Recently, I was having a conversation with a dear friend of mine. I was sharing with her the lack of enthusiasm I feel towards becoming pregnant (DISCLAIMER: Grant and I are not on this path just yet. This conversation was more of a "one day" kind of conversation.). What she shared with me really took me by surprise. She said that during her pregnancy, she felt more beautiful than she has ever felt. My friend is beautiful! Objectively. She is young, thin, beautiful. To hear her say that finding herself in a state that curses many women with sickness and nine months of general discomfort made her feel more beautiful than she had ever felt was odd. Until she followed it with this statement: "I felt like I was fulfilling the purpose that God had for my body at that point in time. Literally."
Wow, right? Who thinks that way? I have thought about what God has in mind for my career path, my relationships, the way I conduct myself in general, but I've never been so mindful as to consider what purpose God has for my body. Have you?
In the scriptures, the body is referred to as a temple. It is a place you go to honor God. A place to be respected and in which you worship. It seems obvious to me that this is the intent God has for all people-to take care of themselves and to value the life and the vessel He has given us. But what about the specific attributes we each have? I believe that there is purpose and reason in that.
What purpose does God have in mind for me? Did He create my brain with a propensity to grow anxious easily as a means for me to be able to empathize with others who struggle with anxiety? Did He gift me with exceptionally strong facial muscles that are seemingly only good for making silly faces with so that I can make the kids I work with laugh? These are just a few distinctions I have, but we're all so distinct! What about everyone else? What purpose does He have in mind for their very bodies?
I'm thankful to have a friend who thinks in such depth but even more grateful she's shared her thoughts with me. I look forward to exploring this and praying about it. Beyond the obvious, what purpose does God wish to serve with my hands, my eyes, my feet...?
3 comments:
MMm. I love it. I'm one of those who wasn't a major fan of being pregnant and truthfully, other than helping create a life, I never thought of it in those terms. I may have helped me feel more at peace. Where was this friend of yours then?!
Thanks for your thoughts. Maybe it'll help me be more at peace with the aftermath of the monsters :)
I like your insights. You are wise my friend.
and my cat has hands? really? come on now...
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