The Hidden Life - 2

Of the few photos of my childhood that have survived, one stands out. It's of an angelic three-year old with an impish grin and holding a little stick. I had obviously been up to no good, because my eyes were closed, in the false belief that no one would see me.

I have grown up since of course, but that trait has still lingered on. I'm sure that in my workplace, whilst attending church services or out with friends, there have been some who may have thought, 'what a nice man!' Maybe that's what I wanted them to see? But perhaps that 'nice man' needed to ask himself the questions, "What am I like when there is no one to see? What do I do in secret when I am all alone?"

There is of course One who sees all and sees us as we really are and His name is Jesus. He is always present. He sees the fears and doubts that surface when we are all alone. He sees the unhealthy habits or lingering illicit glances, in the hope of false comfort. He sees the envious desires for another's popularity, achievements or belongings.

It's this hidden life that really counts, not what others may perceive or think of us. It's how we respond that determines our true character. The fact that He sees all is challenging, but if we really believe, it is also a tremendous comfort.

"For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God." Colossians 3:3 New International Version

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