Saturday, February 2, 2008

Fierce Resolve

When we do determine to reject that mask that we have worn so long a new battle begins. Once we resolve that this mask cannot be, it must be destroyed. There is no compromise on this point. Too great would be the temptation to take it out again and look with fondness on the days of how we wore it well and gained fleeting affections from the fickle masses. No, it must be wholly destroyed.

With the mask destroyed we are suddenly exposed. Skin and features unused for ages, now fully engaged in learning movement and facing elements. It is harsh at times feeling these things anew. We are surprised by the heat of the sun, and sting of the wind. It is both intimidating and exhilarating. Suddenly we are now seeing and feeling in a True way. This is the beginning of living.

This living is endearing ourselves to the emotions and movements of these tender features. And as expression takes shape we realize that we are being watched. It seems to be a cruel thing that people are fascinated by this learning, but it as important for them as it is for us. They must see us go through the growing pains, they must see the full range of emotions, and we must hold nothing back. Anything less would not be authentic.

This authentic state can only be drawn from the Source of authenticity, and we must drink deeply of Him for our survival. Great is the temptation to throw up our hands to cover our faces as we learn. Great is the longing to return to a time of wearing that mask. But that mask is a single facet; a coldly locked representation of what we think others should see. It is shallow and emotionless and cannot be. We must learn; we must face both good and bad with a resolve to walk through to the other side. Our strength and resolve drawn from the Fathomless Well will grant us courage to face death everyday, knowing that in that fearless resolve we will begin to take hold of life.

2 comments:

Martha Elaine Belden said...

as always... this is just beautiful. and so true! in the past, i've been accused of being too transparent... of being too open with my sin and struggles. but i don't think it's possible to be too transparent as long as you're transparency spans across the good and the bad. i don't like portraying a false sense of what faith looks like. it's a hard road... there are trials, we still suffer and yet we share in the glory of the creator.

it's a beautiful thing :)

Anonymous said...

Once again, it is amazing to see someone put into such beautiful words a transformation many of us have gone through and are still struggling with. Awesome stuff!