SINCERITY - SOFTNESS - STRENGTH
Our handwritten letters often end
them with the phrase, “Sincerely yours.”
Have you ever wondered why? This
practice has its origins in ancient Rome.
Using melted beeswax, Roman sculptors frequently concealed cracks in
what only appeared to be flawless marble statues. However, when the wax dried and crumbled,
angry purchasers returned and sought compensation. Thereafter, more reputable sculptors
guaranteed their work as “sine sera,” which means “without wax.” The phrase “Sincerely yours” derives from this.
Likewise, we Christians are called
to be people of sincerity and integrity, whose words embody truth. Sincerity shall always be the cornerstone of
the character of God’s children.
Contrary to what is typically
prevalent in the presidential debates, our words need never be blustery, or
boastful, or loud in volume. Most of the
time, less is more; and, true strength is discovered in surprising and
unexpected places.
Although we are accustomed to
thinking of strength as the polar opposite of gentleness and softness, this is
not always the case. During World War I,
British fighter pilots made the amazing discovery that layers of silk provided
great protection against low velocity shrapnel, far more effective than
steel. So they wound silk around their
heads, worn inside their helmets.
Scientists still aren’t sure what gives silk its incredible strength. But in certain situations, soft and tender
silk proves to be much stronger than hardened steel.
JESUS CHRIST shows us that the same
holds true for human character. While
some people showcase harsh and impenetrable exteriors, the Savior requires far
more of us. In fact, our openness and
our softness become the magnetic currents that transport others to the cross of
Calvary, where they become gracious recipients of His divine love.
How SINCERE, SOFT and STRONG are
you?
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