The moment a sliver of sunshine peeks out from behind the clouds, my wife’s olive skin becomes drenched in an even deeper shade of perfection while her nose is simultaneously kissed by a symmetrical sprinkle of freckles.  And the other day, my daughter noticed the contrast between Mom’s skin and her own fairer complexion when looking at family pictures with Grandma.

Always curious, she asked, “Why is Mom so much darker than me?”

Somewhat apologetically, Grandma said, “Well remember…your skin is half of Mom and half of Dad.”

Immediately concerned, my daughter said, “Oh no! Dad has so many calluses on his hands from lifting weights! I sure hope that doesn’t happen to me!”

I actually DO hope she eventually ends up with calluses…picking up heavy things is beneficial for everyone. But it got me thinking…both aesthetic marvels and scarred-over blisters testify to the majesty of the Creator and the opportunities He so graciously gives.

Some beauty is given, some beauty is earned

The marks of true living, the lessons you’ve learned

The wrinkles, the crinkles, blemishes, scars

Show us the Potter’s work on your heart

Speckles of providence more than skin-deep

“Great is thy faithfulness, Lord unto me”