The True Measure

It was this date, 1987 that I woke up and said to my live-in boyfriend, “let’s get married today.” We were married that day and so much has happened in the years that have come and gone since then! Wendell went to his rest 4 years ago this month and I will turn 62 next month. So much has happened; so much history; so much life; so many memories.

I have never been this old, and when I look in the mirror, I see changes. I see things I have never seen before. When I look at my physical appearance, I see many changes. Gravity is doing a number on me and it seems every month I find some new line or wrinkle. I’m not loving it, but I’m not hating it either. I know there are better days ahead; much better days.

In a world that often measures a person’s worth by their appearance or achievements, the temptation to focus on the mirror instead of the Savior is powerful.

I have mentioned Screwtape’s letters before, but I recently came across these cunning words that highlight this snare that we fall into far too often:

“Let her measure her worth entirely by the admiration she receives from others, particularly from men. If she is beautiful, make her fear losing her beauty; if she is not, make her resentful of those who are. You must twist her thoughts so that she believes her value lies in how she compares to other women—either in appearance, intellect, or charm. In this way, her focus will be on herself, and she will neglect the virtues that bring her closer to the Enemy. - Your affectionate uncle, Screwtape.”

But Jesus calls women to something higher, something eternal. He calls us all, men and women, to something much, much bigger.

Instead of finding fleeting affirmation in the mirror, He invites you and me to see ourselves through His eyes, as a beloved daughter, or son, fearfully and wonderfully made.

"I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works; my soul knows it very well." Psalm 139:14 ESV

 His grace and love redefines worth, not as something earned or displayed, but as a gift already given. Think about that. It is not something we must earn or obtain, it has already been given to us!

When the mirror whispers doubt or pride, fix your eyes on Jesus instead. Let His truth be your reflection, for in Him, you find an identity that no earthly standard can diminish.

"And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another. For this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit." 2 Corinthians 3:18 ESV

by Jeanette Stark – Thursday, January 9, 2025