A few readers, after seeing pictures of my yard in past posts, have shared how they’d love to stop by for a tour -- but if they did, they would be sorely disappointed. Yes, there are pockets of cottage charm here and there, but lurking around every corner are crowded beds, unruly wisteria, and planters filled with crispy bygones from last fall. For sanity’s sake, let’s just say they’re not...photogenic.
While focusing on a charming pocket of blooms in this morning's pictures, the Lord reminded me how it's often easier to reveal to others only those things we want them to see, while avoiding the less "photogenic" areas of our lives.
For years, I kept my fears and phobias neatly tucked beneath a thousand excuses. No one knew except for family, a few close friends, and a cognitive therapist. I was ashamed to say I trusted Christ in one breath, and struggled with fear in the next. Although I continue to battle with the less photogenic me, truth prevails -- and I am a more authentic Christ-follower because of it, flaws and all.
Consider the implications if writing was limited to only those things which bring the readers pleasure—the easy, expected, and colorful side of life while avoiding the failures, deep pitfalls, and dark days? The consequences would be numerous, with the most devastating being the countless souls deprived of the blessing found in 2 Corinthians 1.
Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God. For just as we share abundantly in the sufferings of Christ, so also our comfort abounds through Christ. 2 Cor. 1:3-5
Who might be comforted today in knowing they're not alone in their struggles?
Only God knows, but it begins with us refusing to tuck our less-than-photogenic selves beneath a thousand excuses.
4 comments:
So very true, Cathy. His strength is made perfect in our weakness, but it's still hard to open up in certain situations and with certain people.
There's a kind of "soul nakedness" associated with sharing your weaknesses. There's nothing worse than seeing judgmental eyes staring back at you.
That's been a great lesson for me -- to pray that I reflect the graciousness & understanding of Jesus, and not the criticism & condemnation of the Pharisees.
BTW I'm going to CCWC this weekend!
Convicting, as you often are Cathy.
I've always appreciated I Cor. 1:3-4, but have only thought of it when it comes to encouraging other people that their struggles can provide them with an avenue to minister to others.
The idea that not sharing the "less photogenic" parts of my life deprives others of blessings is a new concept to consider. You make me think.
Thanks for sharing, Susan and Ellen. Great insights from great friends.
Oh, Susan! I'm sorry I'll miss meeting you in Spartanburg this weekend. Can't miss the hubby's first 5K. Otherwise, I'd be there!
I'll miss seeing you, but have a fun time. And you should be running/walking/strolling it too! 5Ks are usually designed for people of all ages and speeds, so think about that for the next time!!
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