As I listened to the story of his journey to Jesus, I was amazed by his nonchalant transparency. As a young boy, he came with his family to North America from an entirely different culture and religious tradition. He grew into an obedient, academically and athletically successful young man. But soon a desire for status and happiness drove him into a pursuit of material success, drugs and unrestrained sexual immorality.
His sin was a “secret” and he worked hard at hiding the truth. His shame was perpetuated by living this lie. However, his story ended with a description of the freedom, joy and assurance that only comes from knowing the sacrificial love of Jesus. He was now redeemed and free from the need to hide. The result…a changed life and a burning passion to share the good news with others. He was no different than Adam and Eve….or me.
The first question recorded in the Bible is God asking, Where are you? (Genesis 3:9 NIV)
Adam and Eve, having just sinned, were hiding. I, too, find myself hiding from God and others when I sin. But God has provided the antidote. Even as a follower of Jesus, I need to come out of hiding and continually avail myself to the cleansing blood of Christ. Then and only then am I free…without shame.
Will you join me in coming out of hiding? This is hard but oh so liberating.
Sharing the journey with you,
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