journey onWord with us

Our culture is driven by outward appearances. People all around us gain tremendous self-worth by how they appear in the eyes of their beholders. To be honest, I suppose all of us want to look good. It would be safe to assume that most of us diet at least once a year, start new work-out programs periodically, and even try to dress fashionably. But I can honestly say that I have never met a person who wanted to be defined by their feet. So I was intrigued this week when I happened upon a verse from our reading that mentioned beautiful feet.  Frankly, when I think of feet it is never in the context of “beautiful”. I can’t remember ever looking at someone’s feet and thinking, “oh, how beautiful”. But hear this…

Romans 10:15
And how can they preach unless they are sent? As it is written, “How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!”

It is very interesting to me that the Apostle Paul used this specific language in connection with spreading the good news. His imagery gives a great word picture, however, for all to see about sharing the gospel. The verse above is set in a passage that has its first application to Israel, but can certainly be applied to sharing the hope of the gospel anywhere. The words in this verse are actually quoted from Isaiah 52:7.

But why are the feet “beautiful”? Simply stated, it is because they represent the messenger who carried the good news, not only to Israel, but to the whole world. Think about those who influenced you for Christ. Their feet may be well-worn and calloused, but to you, “oh, how beautiful”. It is easy for us to think of those who have given their lives for the cause of Christ in far away lands with little fanfare. They built their lives internally through faith in Christ, and can be eternally defined by beautiful feet. But you and I can also be defined that same way, right where we are!

If you have by faith accepted Christ (good news!), that decision comes with responsibility. We would all say it is the most important decision of our lives. Yet, without a doubt, most would agree to at least a small measure of fear in sharing our certain and brilliant hope with others. You may have even used excuses like “I don’t know enough”, or “I may say something wrong”, or even “what will they think of me”. Christ desires that you and I be ambassadors for Him. And what He sees in us, and does through us, is far more important than how we appear in the eyes of others. Do you want beautiful feet?

All Christ followers will one day want to hear the words “well done, good and faithful servant”. After meditating on Romans 10:15, I have concluded that I would love for my life to be defined by beautiful feet. I would certainly be embarrassed if anyone asked to see them. But on the day I stand before Christ, if He were to declare them beautiful, I’d be honored. How about you?!