While I Mused The Fire Burned-- "On Being Real"

Transparency is so important. Jesus wants us to be real.  How easy it is to fake Christianity...to polish a super-pious image that looks great, but is phony. Through the years I've met Christians who are breaking their necks to be Mother Teresa #2.  Or, if you please, Brother Teresa!  Or Saint Francis of Portland, or Seattle...or wherever. Some Christians are trying too hard.  

But genuine Christ-followers?

Broken and spilled-out Jesus lovers?

Ah, many are sincere. They have the bright, outward veneer of Christian intensity. Busy?  Yes, but sadly, far from being authentically spiritual. 

Several years ago I came across some simple, yet profound advice:  "Be who you is, because if you is who you ain't, then you ain't who you is."

Earthy, but wise words. Words easily forgotten in the squirrel case of religious hyperactivity. Why not do a spiritual self-check?  This is a busy time of year and in a short time the holidays will be here. The church activity calendar will go crazy.

Have you become so involved in working for Jesus that you've forgotten the Jesus of the Work?  Are you keeping yourself clear so that Jesus can shine through?

Why not take a breath and allow His Spirit to make you real.  Transparent with His Grace.