Reflections from Used Books

Who doesn't like half-priced and affordable books?

If I have all the money, I would want to buy new books but if you're on a financial struggle, used books are there to save you! I'm kind of obsessed right now in finding old living books at a used bookstore. It’s always like finding a treasure! I believe our financial crisis should never deter us from reading, there's always a way.

I have to tell you that my favorite part after buying a book is where you cover it with plastic. There is something about it that really excites me. I always get thrilled and can't wait to put my hands on it after hitting home.

Before I cover it, I make sure to remove any tags, stickers or even marks (if possible). I would carefully clean it with wipes to remove dirt and stains to make it look clean and like new. If there are torn pages, I would tape or glue it. I would basically do some repairs on any visible damages. As a new owner, I make sure to be careful in using it and treat it with the same care as my other new books.

As I was pondering on this, I was reminded of God's infinite love towards me. I was once a broken and sinful person, full of dirt and marked with iniquities. I am like a used book because I failed to acknowledge the need to turn my life over to God. 

I used to find my significance and self-worth thru different achievements in school be it in academics or extracurricular activities. These substitutes used to fill my unmet desires but only led to disappointments and frustrations. I have made false gods out of this world.

But God pursues me relentlessly. He made me clean and clothed me with His righteousness. Despite the ugliness of my heart, God sees me blameless and spotless because of the Cross. God doesn't see me through my past, but he sees me through, Jesus. He adopted me into His family and called me His "child".

What a beautiful reminder!

Just like these books, I found the real Owner of my life and discovered a new purpose and meaning to it. Every time I buy used books, I am reminded of my significance to God.

But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light. ~ 1 Peter 2:9