Thinking again....

The following are lyrics to a Casting Crowns song: Stained Glass Masquerade. They've been speaking to my heart all week. I pray they do the same for you. Too many times in my life I have witnessed the stained glass masquerade and the pain and confusion it has caused to myself and others.... We are all imperfect wretches, looking for the One who can free us from the chains that bind us. And when we can close the curtain on the stained glass masquerade, not only do we find freedom through the One who gives life in abundance, but the veil is torn down so that others can see Him as well.

Is there anyone that fails? Is there anyone that falls? Am I the only one in church today feelin' so small? Cause when I take a look around everybody seems so strong, I know they'll soon discover that I don't belong.

So I tuck it all away, like everything's okay. If I make them all believe it, maybe I'll believe it too. So with a painted grin, I play the part again, so everyone will see me the way that I see them.

Are we happy plastic people under shiny plastic steeples, with walls around our weakness and smiles to hide our pain? But if the invitation's open to every heart that has been broken, maybe then we close the curtain on our stained glass masquerade.

Is there anyone who's been there? Are there any hands to raise? Am I the only one who's traded in the altar for a stage? The performance is convincing and we know every line by heart, only when no one is watching can we really fall apart.

But would it set me free if I dared to let you see the truth behind the person that you imagine me to be? Would your arms be open or would you walk away? Would the love of Jesus be enough to make you stay?

Or are we happy plastic people under shiny plastic steeples, with walls around our weakness and smiles to hide our pain?

My friends, the invitation IS open to EVERY heart that has been broken! So let us close the curtain on our stained glass masquerade. Blessings, KV