Pink Toenails

I painted my toenails, though some may never see. The cool weather has forced me into warm socks and sneakers so my toes are hidden to most of the world. As a result, almost no one will ever see how cute my digits look when dotted with this shiny, downright girly shade of pink.

My husband will see them. He pretends to be indifferent to such things, but I think he secretly enjoys it when I add a little sparkle to my "temple," so to speak. My kids will probably see them. The boy will likely question the logic behind putting forth such effort on something that will not be seen by the general public. The girl will want to borrow my polish so she, too, can enjoy pink toenails.

Beyond this small crew and the occasional houseguest, few will notice my efforts and even less will appreciate them. Most people I encounter will never know the beauty hidden in my Keds. So why do I bother? Because even on the most wet and dreary days, I have something bright and hopeful to hold on to. My toes bless me. When I feel blessed, I can't help but spill that hope and blessing onto others. In short, my hidden beauty brightens the lives of those around me as well as myself, at least in a small way. Some will want to know the source of my beauty while others will be satisfied by my pleasant disposition and not have a deeper curiosity.

I think of my private spiritual life in similar terms. Most people will never know how much time I spend alone with the Lord, reading my Bible, praying and meditating on the Word. Those closest to me will. They will catch a glimpse of me as I highlight favorite passages or research verses in a commentary or lexicon. They might even see me praying. Some will be glad I'm maintaining my spiritual temple. Others may not understand why I take so much time with the Lord alone when I already go to church a couple of times a week. A few might ask me to help them begin a deeper relationship with the Lord. A significant portion will be glad my "Christian-ness" makes me nice and leave it at that.

But, whether or not anyone ever notices my time alone with the Lord, I will continue to reach out to Him. Because even in the most difficult and painful circumstances, His mercy and grace give me something to hold on to. He blesses me and I can't help but spill that hope and blessing onto others. There is nothing better than hearing someone say, "I don't know what you have, but I want some of it," and being able to tell them all about the joy that comes from our Savior.

Of course just as there are seasons in the year when my pink toenails are exposed for the world to see, there are times when I share my faith boldly. It is welcomed by some and ignored by others. No matter the outcome, growing stronger in my faith by growing closer to the Lord is something I will never give up.

I'll keep painting my toenails, though some may never see.