“We’ve found beauty in our differences.”

A thought by Maria Goff (2017-03-07) from her book, Love Lives Here: Finding What You Need in a World Telling You What You Want (Kindle Location 765). B&H Publishing Group. Kindle Edition. (Click on the title to go to Amazon.com to buy the book.)

God created each of us as unique individuals on purpose.  

Maria talking about her relationship with her husband Bob says, “Bob and I have a lot in common, but we have our differences too. One of our biggest differences is how we engage the world. He’s all gas and no brake. He’s a ‘do-er’ and is energized being around people. His favorite number of people to be with— is more. I, on the other hand, am a ‘be-er.’ I’m content to spend the afternoon with just a few close friends or family. I’m quiet and prefer not to be in a lot of crowds.”

She goes on, “We’ve found beauty in our differences. Bob travels all over the world doing good and chasing bad guys. My focus is on being home and keeping an eye on homeland security. For a long time, I felt like my ambition was somehow a little less noble than his. After all, he goes to Iraq and Mogadishu, Somalia, and opens schools and safe houses and gets innocent young kids out of jails in Uganda. I go to the store and get the groceries. He meets with sultans and talks about ending wars. I cut flowers for vases around our home.”

She continues, “What used to be unsettling for me, now gives me great comfort. That’s how the reverse economy of Jesus works when we let it. I realize that God made us different individually so we could be better together. When Bob travels, I stay home because it keeps both of our lives anchored. We have a family, neighbors, a home, and a life to maintain. Both his efforts for others and my efforts at home are equally important to us. When Bob’s not traveling, he gets the rest and nurture he needs to reset and recharge so he can continue his efforts around the world. On a parallel track, our family enjoys the continuity I provide because I’m around.

“Here’s the thing. I’m not trying to be like Bob, and he’s not trying to be like me. We’re each trying to be like Jesus. God didn’t make us the same, so we’re not trying to act like we are. I think that’s where sometimes people get confused and a lot of tension enters into their relationships. If you feel like your ambition isn’t big enough because it’s not the same ambition someone you love has, don’t buy the lie and change who you are. Don’t screw it up by trying to change who the person you love is either. Celebrate the differences. Laugh about them. Work with them. End up at the feet of Jesus with them. In God’s reverse economy, He makes our differences our strengths so long as He’s the one we’re all aiming to be like.”

And that is the key, “He makes our differences our strengths so long as He’s the one we’re all aiming to be like.”

So where are you different?