Wednesday, September 05, 2018

Shadowed



Sometimes, we seem to live our lives more like shadows. Reflections of what we could be, of what we ought to be. We have the ability to live with clarity in our form and function, in our purpose and value, and with the clear distinction (in our own minds) of what makes us unique and gives us value. We seem, all too often, content to live as the shadows of who we really are meant to be. Maybe we are unsure of our potential, scarred by our past wounds, defeated in our former efforts to live in the brightness of the sunlight; or perhaps we are simply content in existence alone without the risk (and pain - very likely, so much pain) that comes with life lived in determination, hope, (dare I say it?) obedience to what we know to be true, perseverance, abundance, trust, and love.

As my confidence (most probably in the wrong things) has been shaken over the past several weeks, I have realized how comfortable I can be in the shadows. I will not live in the shadows, however, in spite of myself and the epic weaknesses/frailty I now know all too confidently. I know, in my head, whom my strength comes from, and that Truth is (finally) seeping into my heart in a very real way and I find as I stand before the shadow that is myself, I am excited about the clarity of what/whom I (and ultimately we all) should be (in His strength, by His design, and with Divine hope).

These people I call mine know how this is done. They live each day to it's most extreme potential and they inspire others to greatness. I see, through them, the beauty of life lived without fear, doubt, deferred hope, uncertainty (for they are always certain of what they believe to be true :-) and in front of the shadows.





The shadows of the creation (and it's creatures) around us complement, give perspective, give the color it's boldness (by contrast), and remind us that light is potent. 















2 comments:

teona said...

❤️

Unknown said...

Reminds me of this passage from Ephesians 5... "for once you were darkness, but now you are light in the Lord; walk as children of light (for the fruit of light is found in all that is good and right and true), and try to learn what is pleasing to the Lord. ...'Awake, O sleeper, and arise from the dead, and Christ shall give you light'..."

:) <3 -J