Making the Crooked Straight

Artistic asymmetry is one thing.  Having things not perfectly aligned can give a photograph or a painting real visual interest.  Beauty of another kind.

Not the same with teeth.

My lower teeth have been misaligned for decades… severely so.  Or, at least, that’s how it’s beginning to seem to me.

I inherited this from my mom.  It didn’t start until after my childhood; I don’t remember exactly when.   I never really cared about straightening them out before.  But are they getting worse, Lord?  Or am I just starting to notice them more?

Why am I suddenly so aware of those TV commercials for a product called “Invisalign”?

They look like see-through plastic molds on the teeth.  “Invisible” (so the ads claim).  I only see adults featured.  Is that because this condition is not uncommon, and is exacerbated with age?

I guess I’ll go for a free consultation with one of our local specialists.  To consider my options.  To realign or not?  The real answer I need is Yours, Lord.  Would You have me realign my teeth…

… or my thinking?

I know there’s nothing I need do to my body to become more beautiful in Your sight.

“People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.”  (1 Samuel 16:7)

Maybe that’s why I have not colored my grey hair.  You gave me a way to re-frame the issue, speaking a great truth that has inspired me to press on.  I have “earned” every one of those grey hairs and, by Your Grace, gone beyond mere “surviving” to thriving.

Maybe I can re-frame how I think about these crooked teeth.  So they become an asset in my mind… not a liability.

“We have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us.”  (2 Corinthians 4:7)

Besides, You have already taken care of the only realignment I truly needed.

“For those God foreknew He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son… And those He predestined, He also called; those He called, He also justified; those He justified, He also glorified.”  (Romans 8:29-30)

Justify = To make the crooked straight.  Justified = To be made “right” with You, Lord.

Wow!  You have put such a beautiful smile in my spirit, how could it not shine through on my face… teeth or no teeth?!

Gratefully,

Abba’s Girl

2 Comments

  • Steve & Carolyn Van Ooteghem says:

    I hear you, sister! That beautiful Spirit does shine through, to the blessing and edification of so many! By the way, I never noticed any crooked teeth in your smile, and I’m a former hygienist! I think those intensely loving eyes keep everyone else’s eyes looking above your teeth!
    Thanks for sharing your walk! Much love from us both,

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