Transparent

Maybe you have noticed the background of this blog, which reads:
"Come As You Are"

Well, it just so happens that the inspiration of this blog comes from that very thought. I believe that life is more beautiful, more fulfilling, more scary, but more worthwhile when you are vulnerable. However, this is not such an easy thing to do. It's the biggest obstacle in my faith walk right now, as I struggle to let go of my pride and be transparent about my struggles. That is a huge deal in a society that pushes you to "put your best foot forward" and "disguise your weaknesses as strengths." But as a Christian, it is so important for you to be open and honest to God, yourself, and others about where you fall short.

James 5:16 says, "Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective."

The sound of that is so nerve wracking! I don't want people to know my secrets, I don't want to be thought of as weak, and I certainly don't want people judging me for my mistakes. Oh, no no no! BUT- as soon as I shift the focus off of my selfish self and onto my beautiful Savior, those thoughts drift away. That's ultimately who I define myself as, right? A child of God saved by the good grace of my Redeemer who loves me beyond comprehension!

There are hurting people (people just like me) who need to come to the saving knowledge of what Jesus has done for them. By being humble and honest about the dismal places I have walked through and the revelation I have seen in my own life, I can reach people and point them to Light in this dark world.

Ernest Hemingway says, "Write clear and hard about what hurts." And I'm gonna do just that.