Perceptions #200017

BEFORE AND AFTER

by Jerry Hodge

I noticed two pictures of a young lady in the newspaper yesterday. The first was labeled "Before" and the second was labeled "After." The product advertised was a weight loss pill that enabled this girl to weigh a healthy 104 pounds. But what was even more amazing was the other affects these pills must have had. First, they helped her posture. After the medication she is now able to stand tall with her shoulders back in confidence. Second, these pills even helped her with a new hairstyle and makeup. Something in the ingredients must have put color back into her skin. Third, this product even makes you happy. Her new smile was contagious. Before she looked as if she had eaten too many lemons. Last, and the most amazing - she now has nicer clothes. Wow!! What a product.

No, I am not trying to sell you a miracle pill. I want you to think about pictures. Isn't it funny when someone takes our picture - which is an exact representation of us at that moment in time - we say, "That doesn't look like me at all." Or we buy a picture and have the photographer airbrush some areas to make it look "more like us."

One time Oliver Cromwell had his portrait done by a well-known artist. When completed Cromwell noticed that the artist had left out some of his blemishes. So Cromwell said you go back and paint my picture, - warts and all!

It is ironic how much emphasis we put on the externals. Especially when God said he looks at the heart. How big is your heart? How much do you love God and others?

Remember he loves you - Warts and all!

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