Unknown

"... in a mirror dimly..."

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"For now we see in a mirror, dimly, but then we will see face to face. Now I know only in part; then I will know fully, even as I have been fully known." (I Corinthians 13:12)

Life is full of mystery. Would we want it any other way? As much as we need to know and want to know, wouldn't life be boring without some mystery? Science helps us discover the secrets of our world so we can better care for our lives and God's creation. Science helps us work with what is... Faith invites us into what will be...

In relationships, too much mystery can create a problem. If I don't know enough about you it might be difficult to trust. If I feel like you don't know me (or want to get to know me) then hurt might shatter our relationship. Remember "The Newlywed Show" on television? Prizes were awarded to the newly-married couple who knew the most trivial information about one another, like what brand of toothbrush the other used. What if we interviewed the winners five years into their marriages? Forget about toothbrushes. Would they know each others deeper feelings? How many would fail the quiz?

We yearn to be known. It hurts enough to be at a place in life where we feel like we don't know anyone. It hurts even more to feel that we're not known by anyone. To feel "unknown" is deeply wounding, sometimes calling into question our very reason for living. "Who cares? Who would miss me?"

As we move toward Christmas remember that once more we're about to tell a story of mystery and wonder. At it's core is a simple truth: God knows us fully, and cares enough to be with us. We are not alone. Thanks be to God! There are many "unknowns" among us who need to hear this good news. They may be next to us in our office, they may be next to us at the dinner table, or they may be living in a box under the bridge. I pray that God will help me seek and get to know those who feel "unknown." How about you?

Blessings and Peace,
Gary
Pastor, Sand Hill United Methodist Church
Boaz, West Virginia



Help save lives! For more information on my new book, "A Relentless Hope: Surviving the Storm of Teen Depression," visit www.survivingteendepression.com.

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http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o1hSpxC_G24