Jade – What China’s National Treasure Taught me about my Worth.
My Visit to the Jade Gallery in Beijing gave me insight into this beautiful stone, considered China’s national treasure. Jade is carved into amazing sculptures and is crafted into jewelry.
Visiting the #Jade Gallery in Beijing gave me insight into this beautiful stone, considered China's national treasure. Share on X
These sculptures are impressive. Some are massive like these in the entryway of the White Swan Hotel on Shamian Island.
Other carvings like the family ball are keepsakes. They are a series of separate carvings all inside one another—representing each member of the family. They are carved from the inside out from one piece of jade.
Family is very important in their culture. Many generations live and interact with one another in the same household. The family ball is a visible reminder of their inter-generational connectedness.
Jade and Jadeite are considered a treasure
Jade jewelry is unique and beautiful. It is carved from Jadeite which is harder and more durable. It is worn primarily on the left side of the body – rings, bangles, bracelets – close to the heart. It is a living stone that becomes more beautiful over time as it is worn, interacting with the personal chemistry and oils in the skin.
When engaged, a husband-to-be gives a jadeite bangle to his intended bride. She wears it on the left wrist, as an unending circle of love and devotion. Like our wedding ring. Even men and boys wear jade pendants, receiving them as gifts at their birth.
China's national treasure reminds me of being called God’s treasure. #Jade Share on XWe are God’s Treasure
Seeing China’s national treasure reminded me of being called God’s treasure. We are intricately made, created with a one-of-a-kind nature. We are chiseled gently by the Master-carver. And as we stay close to Him, we become more beautiful over time. We are chosen, cherished, and set apart as His most treasured possession. Scripture tells us:
We have this treasure in earthen vessels.
We are precious stones being built into a spiritual house.
We are redeemed with the blood of Jesus.
We are sealed with the Holy Spirit as a promise. We are His for eternity.
We are His bride.
Not because we are anything in our own right, but because of His loving-kindness toward those who believe.
Like jade, we are a treasure, even more valuable, eternity bound, all because of Jesus.
How does being God’s treasured possession change how you view yourself and others? #Jade #ChinasNationalTreasure Share on XHow does being God’s treasured possession change how you view yourself and others? Be sure to comment below and join the conversation.
Jeanne
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Photos taken in China by Jeanne & Heather Doyon
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Thank you, Jeanne, for replenishing my cup………yes, we are HIS treasure. Yet, we have done nothing to deserve it. Love and forgiveness have changed us.
When I first saw a jade bracelet I was impressed by it’s beauty. Regal, and yet it had a softness to it…I love the tradition that follows it.
Jade is beautiful yet simple. Unless you look at those intricate carvings. But I prefer a simple bangle
This was my favorite line, Jeanne: “Like jade, we are a treasure, even more valuable, eternity bound, all because of Jesus.” Some days, I feel more like treasure than others, but, it’s a glorious thing that my ‘feelings’ don’t affect the fact that I AM GOD’S TREASURE!
Yes, you are Julie 😊
Thanks, Jeanne! A treasured possession is something intimate that touches your heart. Something proudly displayed. God shows us off to the world to demonstrate the beauty of what He has created. It is truly a special blessing!
Sheree, indeed. And, like His proclamation over Jesus, He says: This is my son/daughter in whom I am well pleased.If we can just grasp a piece of that, it would change our outlook on everything.
Having been to the Jade Gallery in Beijing, I so enjoyed reading your post. Truly, the beauty of jade and the art craft is something to behold.
And your analogy of how we are treasured by God was a blessing to me. Thanks.
Thank you for your thoughts, Connie. You are a treasure to Him.
Jeanne,
Thank you so much for that reminder! As someone who struggles with insecurity and my worth, that was a perfect reminder of just how much God loves me and has intricately designed me to His perfection.
Tracy, oh my! He sure does. I think we all struggle in some ways with our worth…being enough. We have a world that is quick to judge us and put their standards up. I struggle too. Let’s commit to pray for one another in this. Hugs, my friend
Thanks for an encouraging post, Jeanne! I love the thought that jade becomes more beautiful as it ages. As believers, we become more beautiful as we draw closer to God and learn more of His Word.
Sherry, thanks for your thoughts on seeing our worth in Christ. Jade is a wonderful and beautiful reminder to me too.