Loving truth

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I am an artist.  As an artist, truth is very important to me.  Seeking it, wanting it, finding it, revealing it.

I want to get to the heart of the matter in life, in others, in my environment, and just plain everywhere.

And therein lies the bane of my existence!  Why?  Because "All the world's a stage and all the men and women merely players," said Shakespeare.

Most people live in denial of the truth - about God, about life, about themselves.  So when people like me come along, they get uncomfortable.  "You're rocking the boat!"  "We like the little world we've created for ourselves - even if it is a house of cards!"

I am drawn to those who "tell it like it is."  I admire those who are themselves no matter what others think of them.  They won't be kowtowed into the status quo, or bullied into believing the latest ism.  They stay true to themselves, who God made them to be.

They don't find it necessary to "play act" their way through life in order to be "liked," or accepted, or not ruffle any feathers.  

But truth-tellers throughout history have not fared well, to say the least.  But don't let that stop you from seeking the Truth.  He is well worth it.

Did I just call truth a "he?"  Yes.  

"I AM the truth, the life, and the way," said Jesus.  So Truth is a Person and His Name is Jesus.  

All truth is found in Him.  So if it is truly truth we're after, then we can't sidestep the truth of Christ.  No way around it, around Him.

Are you a lover of truth?  Or are you content to believe whatever the changing and unstable "flavor of the month" offers?

One day, the Truth will expose all for what it really is.  I say, bring it!  

When (not if!) we stand before God, game over.  No more pretending.  All will be laid bare for God and everyone else to see.  Yeehah!  That gets me excited!  To finally see who is really who!

I believe we will be surprised, if not shocked, on that day.  Why?  Because remember, all the world is a stage and every man an actor!  But their earthly "role" will be over.  Now we get to see their true character, not just the outer shell, or persona, that they presented to the world.

That is why, as Christians, it is crucial that we let the Lord renovate us thoroughly - so that we can be found blameless and pure before Him.  And who is blameless and pure in this life?  Precisely none!  But with the Lord living inside of us, we have a chance - a chance to become not just our "best selves," but most importantly, a chance to become like Jesus.

After all, is there any other example or role model other than Christ?  Why follow or imitate any other?

Now for me, this truth is a huge relief.  I can exhale.  I can drop my shoulders and relax.  I get exactly what I need when I come to Christ: forgiveness, identity, His Holy Spirit living inside me to transform me into His likeness.  Truth.  Finally.

For all of us truth lovers, our day will come.  Hang in there!  It will be well worth waiting for.

Lord Jesus, thank You that in this ever-changing, mixed up, crazy world that You not only reveal and teach truth, you are the Truth.  Thank You for coming back for us soon and bringing Your truth with You!  Thank You for being all-knowing and all-wise.  Thank You that we can know the truth because of You.  Help us to live truthfully with all boldness and sincerity, sweet Jesus.  In Your Name we pray.  Amen.


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