Authenticity is proof that something is real. Artists sign their works of art to provide authenticity. Clothing and personal items contain tags of authenticity. But what shows the authenticity of a person?
“Like a clown I put on a show, pain is real even if nobody knows, I’m crying inside and nobody knows it but me.” Do those lyrics by the Tony Rich Project resonate with you? Do you often wonder what lies behind the mask of a smile? Is it real or a painted grin? There is no authenticity when we choose to mask our pain.
Be authentic, be real. Expose the brokenness. Let them see the scars. Here on this page I share a perfect example of authenticity.
Once there was a man who traveled homeless from place to place sharing stories and healing many along the way. He didn’t care how poor or broken these people were in his path. He didn’t care about the depths of their sin. He showed them love and compassion regardless of their status or stature. In John 11:35 He wept. He was no stranger to pain. Then the day came. He was chosen to be crucified. His hands and feet nailed to the cross and His body displayed for the whole world to see. There He died for you and me; one knows no greater love.
A few days later, He returned to his disciples and one inquired about His true identity. How could they know He was the real deal? What proof could he offer them? He said, “Put your finger here, and look at my hands. Put your hand here in my side. Stop being an unbeliever and believe.” John 20:27. Jesus showed his deep wounds and scars to prove He was genuine. That, my friend, is authenticity.
We must open up, be vulnerable and show others our deepest scars. Only then, will they see the real you. Today, I too am scarred and broken. I celebrate my son’s 13th birthday with the feeling of utmost joy, but yet suffer for the one who weeps at the loss of their son who spends his 13th birthday in heaven. My son lived while another’s was taken too soon on a dark day in June 2012. There are no words…only bittersweet joy and pain.
Scars and wounds mark a person’s authenticity. That’s how we know a person is real.
Be authentic…be real.
Jeanette Lytle
10/28/16