I have been thinking lately of the importance of living an unfiltered life before God and others.  How different we would be, and how it affects our relationships with those around us.  All of us at one level or another filter, or edit, what is seen or known about us. What freedom might be found if we were to truly be real and authentic people?

     Before the Fall in the garden, we were open and real before God and each other.  Once sin came into the picture, we physically and figuratively began to cover ourselves up.  When Christ came into the world to redeem us we were freed from that burden, and are daily being changed into his likeness.  I believe that we are called to be once again, authentic and open.  Yet we still persist in hiding who we are from others, including God.  We at times monitor what we show others about us.  Perhaps its fear.  Fear of what others will think, or fear of people rejecting us.  Even with God, who is all knowing, our creator and father, we try to hide.

     When we free ourselves from the self editing, and allow ourselves to freely be who we are, we open ourselves up to new horizons and growth.  We allow others to see new textures, flavors, and colors, nuances, that show the depth of Gods work in our lives and in the process bring glory to him.  We allow others to begin to trust and open themselves up, again showing Gods glory not just as individuals, but as his community.

     This kind of self disclosure does not come easy.  It needs to be developed in loving and trusting relationships.  But it needs to happen.  It requires the work of the Holy Spirit and our willingness to yield to that work in our lives. It needs to be bathed in prayer and requires accountability with another.  It may mean counseling or spiritual direction as a way to facilitate this ongoing part of the journey.  As you walk with God, ask him to show you truly who you are and who he is, he is steadfast and faithful.  Remember, we don’t do this alone.

Picture: Bicolor Filter, by Fr Antunes