The Mask
Originally scheduled for
August 30
The
Mask came into church today. He – or who knows, is it she? – is sitting with
us right now. The Mask often is here with us; it’s just that we usually don’t
recognize the Mask. Indeed, what is there to look for? The Mask is all
smiles; the children are doing just fine; everyone’s healthy – and no one’s
heart is troubled with spiritual problems. It’s better than that; the Mask is
never offended, for no one can offend the Mask. Never offended, the Mask never
needs to forgive. You won’t get much chance to look at the Mask, though; it
might crack under the strain of serious conversation.
You
might ask why the Mask comes here at all – why not just plain honest folks?
You don’t understand: the Mask knows that this is not a hospital for sinners
but a health club for saints. Therefore, the Mask should never be in pain.
But behind the mask there is pain, and this must be kept from sight. The Mask,
you see, helps its wearer hide in plain sight. For without the Mask, wouldn’t
people begin to judge? Wouldn’t they say that the Mask’s troubles are of his
own making, and therefore leave him condemned to stew in his own juices?
What
are we to do? Perhaps we might tell the Mask some simple facts. First, you’re
right – we can’t see through your Mask. You won’t let us. And even if we did,
we’d be afraid to look – for seeing through your mask might expose cracks in
our own. We might even have to take off our masks to see through yours. So do
not fear us.
But
give some thought to your Lord, Jesus Christ. Do not think that you can
deceive him, for blackest night is like clearest day to him. But he does not
judge you; rather, he wants you to bring your troubles to him. He longs to
hear you repent; he longs to hear you forgive. He went to the Cross to have
mercy triumph over judgment. Indeed, as he has no mask, removing yours allows
sweet fellowship between you and him. Perhaps you could set an example for the
rest of us. Repent, and then receive.
