Chipped and Stained

Today’s message was written by my friend Rev. Amy Camp.

 My favorite coffee mug was given to me by a good friend a few years ago on my birthday. It’s my favorite color purple and it has the words “blessings are everywhere” printed in white.

Just as the warm liquid helps to awaken me from slumber, the words on my mug help to awaken me to the many blessings that God gives me each and every day:

The sounds of birds singing, the hug of a loved one, the beauty of a new spring day, the unconditional love I receive from my dog, the opportunity to have lunch with a good friend…

My favorite mug also has a little chip on the rim and a light blue stain on the inside. I’m probably the only one who notices these imperfections, but they are important to me. I actually like the chip and the stain! You see, the chip reminds me each and every day that I don’t have to be perfect- God loves me just as I am…The stain reminds me of how much I need God’s amazing grace and steadfast love in my life. I cannot change the past. It is what it is. But with God’s help, I can change today!

Please pray with me: Holy God, open our eyes to the many blessings you put before us this very moment. Thank you that you love us just the way we are…even with our chips and stains. Help us to become who you created us to be! Amen.