SINCERITY
- SOFTNESS - STRENGTH
Our handwritten
letters often end 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 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 personify
and embody truth. Sincerity is a cornerstone character trait of God’s
children.
Contrary to what is
typically prevalent on the contemporary political stage, our words need not
contain bluster, boasting or overflowing ego. Most of the time, less is
more. True strength is frequently
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 a radical
difference in 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 God’s extraordinary love.
How SINCERE, SOFT,
yet STRONG are you?
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