The Ugly Duckling

Throughout time, discrimination has made its hideous opinions known on matters like race, gender, religion, ethnicity, gender, weight, intellectual disabilities, sexual orientation, and educational level just to name a few life areas.

In today’s “equal opportunity” society, prejudice does exist with unwelcome gestures, unfair hiring practices, hurtful (non-funny) jokes, and many other examples that come to your mind or experience (that are not a part of my repertoire).

In Romans 2:11(MSG), true believers of the Almighty are told this about His character: “God pays no attention to what others say (or what you think) about you. He makes up His own mind.” The Heavenly Father sees value in everyone (whether other people agree or not).

The term “ugly duckling” is the title of a story by Hans Christian Anderson. Generally, the term refers to an individual initially considered unpromising, but through some process to later to prove admirable (and of great worth).

Acts 10:34-35 (MSG) reminds me somewhat of the above expression. “God plays no favorites! It makes no difference who you are, or where you’re from – if you want God and are ready to do as He says, the door is open.”  

The Heavenly Father is often unpredictable (by us). Many times He will take an individual that society deems of little significance (an ugly duckling). The transformation that God uses to turn this soul into a costly asset (a swan) is truly miraculous.

No matter what differences you may have with those you come into contact with, John 13:34-35 (MSG) describes exactly how God wants you to treat the variety of individuals you get in touch with throughout your day (or night).

“Let me give you a new command: love one another. In the same way I loved you, you love one another. This is how everyone will recognize that you are my disciples – when they see the love you have for each other.”

NOTE: The topic for this post was inspired by a request from my adult daughter, Allena. If there is something you would like me to discuss on ENCOURAGE ME, please e-mail me at robert3chis@gmail.com. Thanks, and secretly bless someone today. You will be glad you chose to.