Cover via Amazon
The title grabbed my attention: The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society (by Mary Ann Shaffer and Annie Barrows). And it turned out to be an excellent read, especially since I particularly enjoy historical fiction.
But this post is not a book review. It’s about a statement one of the characters makes.
First, a bit of background. A group of folk who lived on the island of Guernsey, in the late 1940s, were greatly anticipating the arrival of a writer. This writer was going to tell their story of what happened during the German occupation of World War II.
Upon her arrival, one of the village residents, Juliet, says, “How beautiful of you to come” (p. 26).
Note she did not say, “How wonderful of you to come.” She said, beautiful.
I love the use of an unexpected word that catches me by surprise and makes me think.
As I read Juliet’s statement, I thought it made a perfect gratitude prayer to Jesus, especially at Christmastime.
How beautiful of you to come—how lovely, graceful, goodly, splendorous, and magnificent.
Oh, yes, Lord Jesus.
How beautiful of you to come, leaving the resplendent perfection of heaven behind, and:
- Making yourself nothing,
- Taking the very nature of a servant,
- Becoming obedient to death (Philippians 2:7-8).
How beautiful of you to come, with glorious qualities that delight our hearts—qualities such as:
- Love, expressed with forgiveness, patience, and benevolence (1 Corinthians 13:4-5).
- Perfect sinlessness, giving us a worthy example to follow (Hebrews 4:15).
- Truth, in which we can trust (John 14:6).
- Peace that defies explanation (Philippians 4:6-7).
How beautiful of you to come, to:
- Turn my darkness into light (2 Samuel 22:29b).
- Be the source of my salvation (Hebrews 5:9).
- Be with me always (Matthew 28:20).
- Provide blessing after blessing (John 1:16).
How beautiful of you to come.
And as we welcome you into our hearts, Lord Jesus, you make us new (2 Corinthians 5:17).
You make us beautiful! We can:
- Shine like stars (Philippians 2:15).
- Be the aroma of Christ to others (2 Corinthians 2:14-15).
- Reflect your image (Romans 8:29) of holiness, moral purity, and love.
Oh, how beautiful of you to come!
From the Inside Out 
Just Beautiful., Thanks
Love,
Tedi
Thank you, Tedi, and praise God–as always. ‘Praying you have a delightful post-Christmas week!
How beautiful is YOUR writing. Beautiful thoughts from a beautiful person. May God bless you richly.
Thank you, Grace, for your kind words. Your encouragement means so much–helps to keep me at the keyboard! And I AM richly blessed–beginning with loving family and friends. That would include you!
Beautiful and a good reminder. God Bless you..
Thank you, Laura! I do appreciate your loyalty and encouragement.
Beautiful!!!! I enjoyed all the reminders of the beauty of His coming. It brought tears of thankfulness to my eyes as I read each point. I need to save this to read each Christmas! Praying your new year is full of blessings, Nancy.
I am honored that you found the post worthy of keeping! Thank you, Tresa.
Nancy, I too enjoyed the ‘Guernsey Literary Society….’ book. What a story. The phrase you chose to highlight and the way you wrote of it towards our Lord’s coming to earth was just, well, beautiful.
I like the way you think!
Thank you, Jody. I’m delighted you found the post beautiful.
P.S. I like the way you think, too!
Once again, an inspired analysis…
Thank you, Cheri. Praise God for his inspiration!
I really enjoyed this one as well. Very heart-warming!
Delighted that the post warmed your heart. Thank you again for becoming a follower, Gail!