“Draw near enough to hear Jesus’ whisper, then ask Him, How do you see this person? The first thing you’ll learn is that Jesus sees the person as a person. He doesn’t see a sinner or a doubter or a failure. He sees a person — an immortal treasure made in His image.”- Alan Wright
“To be loved but not known is comforting, but superficial. To be known and not loved is our greatest fear.”- Timothy and Kathy Keller, The Meaning of Marriage
Then those who were at table with [Jesus] began to say among themselves, “Who is this, who even forgives sins?” And he said to the woman, “Your faith has saved you; go in peace.”- Luke 7:49 (ESV)
Alan Wright concludes Chapter 6 of Seeing as Jesus Sees as he underscores our universal need for people who see us. People who always remember who God made us to be. Thus, Pastor Wright suggests, perhaps the most important gift consists of people see us for who we are and who we are destined to be. No matter how we might present ourselves in the moment.
Because when our flaws and imperfections foment inner shame, we fear being seen. As a result, we cover ourselves with the fig leaves of:
- performing
- people pleasing
- refusing to be deeply honest with another person.
When we believe our flaws will cause others to love us less, of course we try to hide those flaws. In addition, Pastor Wright defines shame as vaporized and undefined, a deep-down angst that defies logic. So, we cover up our shame.
In conclusion, Alan asks what manner of love is this that exposes our shame only so that shame can be covered with the acceptance that flows so freely through Jesus. Therefore, the author explains:
“To see others as Jesus sees them isn’t to pretend that they’re unflawed. It is instead to acknowledge their flaws while seeing the person.”
Today’s question: When do you draw near enough to hear Jesus’ whisper? Please share.
Coming Monday: the Easter Short Meditation, “Let alleluias leap – amen!”
Tomorrow’s blog: “Affirming vision – blessing”
