Beautiful feet

Feet are not always a pretty sight.

There are some among us whose feet have been actually deformed by years of wearing shoes that looked nice but did terrible things to the shape and direction of our toes.

In some cultures, feet are used to show disrespect and the bottom of one’s feet or shoes can be used as a terrible insult.

Yet in today’s first reading (Romans 10:9-18), St. Paul says,

How beautiful are the feet
of those who bring the good news!

This is not to equate evangelization with cosmetic podiatry, of course: the meaning is symbolic.

You and I may not be the most classically beautiful people in the world and indeed we may have flaws in our appearance or even our personalities, but by bringing to others the good news of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ we display a beauty more wonderful and more lasting than all the supermodels of the world... right down to our toes.

The law of the LORD is perfect,
refreshing the soul.

The decree of the LORD is trustworthy,
giving wisdom to the simple.

The precepts of the LORD are right,
rejoicing the heart.
The command of the LORD is clear,
enlightening the eye.

The fear of the LORD is pure,
enduring forever.
The statutes of the LORD are true,
all of them just;
More desirable than gold,
than a hoard of purest gold,
Sweeter also than honey
or drippings from the comb.