The tarnished flatware caught my eye. It was wrapped in a plastic bag, tossed on the thrift store shelf with other discarded items. When I looked at the price, I realized that the worker who priced it did not recognize its worth.
I spread the silver-plated flatware on my counter. Other than its blackened finish, all 23 pieces were in good shape. It was going to take time and effort to restore the cutlery back to its original beauty. I rolled up my sleeves and got busy.
I lathered on the silver cream and rubbed vigorously. Gradually, the silverplate began to show through. I repeated the process until all the blemishes were removed. After a quick rinse, the silverplate was smooth and shiny. I could even see my reflection.
As I do with all my vintage finds, I like to identify the pattern and the era when it was manufactured. This pattern was made by the Rogers Brothers in 1940; its name, Beloved.
And the analogy was powerful…
Like the silver flatware, how often do we feel rejected, tossed aside and discarded? Not valued by others? Our worth unseen? Tarnished by tainted perceptions, unrealistic expectations and difficult situations?
Yet we are God’s beloved. We are chosen and adored. Valued and worthy.
If we are surrendered and willing, the Lord will lovingly remove the ugly, neglected parts of our life. The clean-up process may be unpleasant, messy and painful, but the result is restored beauty…which reflects the image of the One who created us.
Always remember: you are God’s beloved treasure.
Now this is what the Lord says—
the One who created you, Jacob,
and the One who formed you, Israel—
“Do not fear, for I have redeemed you;
I have called you by your name; you are Mine.
~ Isaiah 43:1