I have a hobby not many people know about. I LOVE to scour Facebook Marketplace and “junk” stores, find under-valued things, and give them new life.
I’m not really a lover of “vintage” items, but I am a lover of refurbishing. There is something about finding an item that has been unloved or stuck in a box, sanding it down, repainting it, and finding just the right knobs or accessories to make it stand proud again. I know I am only working on objects, but when I’m finished I feel like I have bestowed dignity and beauty.
I like that feeling.
You know what is most interesting about this hobby to me?
About 6-7 years ago, I took a leadership assessment to help me in my job. I had to prioritize my values on a scale of 0-10, and when it came to things like beauty, aesthetics, and values of that nature . . . I didn’t hesitate in scoring them with a “0.” I didn’t want to get stuck in a “girl” category professionally, so I had never allowed myself to even think about enjoying beauty or order. I really, truly did not think things like this were important to me.
As it turns out, I was completely wrong about that.
One of the beautiful things I find in following Christ is the freedom to grow more fully into who I was made to be. The story of Genesis tells me I was created in the image of God. That means many of the funny little quirks and interests that make me who I am can show me something about who God is.
And they do!
For instance, I like repainting old furniture . . . and God promises to make all things new one day (Revelations 21:5). I like gluing together a dusty vase . . . and God “makes everything beautiful in its time” (Ecclesiastes 3:4). I love equipping something forgotten with new utility . . . and God creates his handiwork for “good works” (Ephesians 2:10).
In this small way, my refurbishing hobby allows me to worship my Creator by more fully acknowledging who he is. And when I do that, I also gain the relief of knowing that the things I enjoy aren’t accidents or stereotypes . . . they are intentional parts of my being, placed there so I can tangibly share the joy of God.
If you have stifled a hobby or interest that feels “frivolous” or “vain” or “silly,” this is a great time to re-evaluate it and see if you are needlessly condemning it (and yourself!). All good things can be corrupted, of course, but it is possible that you are denying yourself a form of stress-relief and worship that would bless you more than you can imagine.
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