Will The Real You Please Stand Up!

The use of masks in ancient Greek theater was common. Those in the chorus wore masks, but their masks were completely different from those of the leading actors. Because the number of actors was limited, they each had several masks in order to play several roles. Since the actors were all men, the mask was also necessary to allow them to play the female roles.

Students of Greek Theater assume that it was possible that the mask afforded the character being played by the actor some sort of anonymity so that the audience would judge him on his performance rather than his appearance. Actor David Prowse who portrayed the character of Darth Vader, the villain and fictional character in the Star Wars saga is a good example of the mask’s use today.Sadly though, today many people wear “masks” who aren’t professional actors. Before I became a Christian I had a closet filled with them — one for every occasion. I had a happy mask, a sad mask, a mad mask and a do-my-own-thing mask. Today, we see masks of piety, masks to hide sin, masks for church on Sunday and perhaps a much different mask to wear to work on Monday. The problem with wearing masks is you can get confused and forget who you really are. Pretending to be something or someone we are not is a façade that we can’t keep up forever. Some hide behind a mask as a result of low self-esteem or insecurities or maybe because they’ve been hurt and are afraid of being hurt again.

A basic need, essential to a person’s sense of well-being, is that of unconditional acceptance and love. By unconditional love, we are speaking of love on the basis of being rather than doing. God alone chooses to love the unlovable and bless them with His glory even when undeserved. His love is unwavering for those who delight in Him, respond to Him and receive His only Son.

God certainly knows what’s in your heart. There is no reason to wear a mask. Step into His loving grace, and become the person you were meant to be. Only by finding your identity in Christ will you ever find true happiness.

The Bible says “…you are accepted in the beloved” (Eph. 1.6).

Don’t be afraid to let hope lead you to new adventures and greener pasture.

My Children
Come to me my children!
With the world why do you play?
When I have more to offer —
Come now and do not delay.
Come to me my children!
I have much for you to do.
My return is drawing near each day,
My workers are very few.
Come to me my children!
Flee the flesh and mortal sin.
With me, unlike with others,
There is no need to pretend.
Come to me my children!
Where joy and peace abound.
And all that you long for,
Can easily be found.