“But the Lord said to Samuel, ‘Do
not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The Lord does
not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance,
but the Lord looks at the heart’” (1
Samuel 16:7 NIV).
During Lent, many Christians choose to give up
something. Chocolate, soft drinks, junk food, bread and red meat are just a few
of the things given up during this time of repentance, fasting and preparation
for the coming of Easter.
Recently, I learned a 13-year-old girl at our church
has given up wearing make-up for Lent. Men, you may not be able to relate, but
for women, especially a young teenager, this is a sacrifice.
Addie’s mother shared the following on the second
day of Lent: “Feeling very blessed! Last night at our Ash Wednesday service,
the girls were talking about what they were giving up for Lent. Addie said she
was giving up make-up. ‘Wow,’ I said, ‘that is a big one.’ I then realized
today they are taking wrestling pictures. (Note: Addie is a wrestling
cheerleader) I told her it would be okay to wear make-up for the pictures. She
looked at me and said, ‘Mom, if it is in God’s plan that I not have make-up on,
then that is what I will do.’”
Our true identity is found in a relationship with
our Heavenly Father.
When I read this post on Facebook, I was not
surprised. I know this family and their dedication to living a Godly life.
However, I was amazed and touched by this 13-year-old girl’s willingness to
give up wearing make-up, even for a yearbook photo, to honor her commitment to
God.
