Of the various carvings, statues, and casting that I have, my favorite is a wood carving of Buddha that found in Myanmar. There is more to the carving than being a Burmese styled Buddha statue. The carving has a flaw. From the chest area above the heart through to the left shoulder, there is a dark jagged hole. It is a natural one, the remains that are left from where a branch was originally growing. I have never seen another artist choose to represent a spiritual leader while including a natural flaw in the material.
As I reflect on the Hindu manifestations of god I have seen this week in India, I am reminded that every representation is of one part of the character of Brahma. As strong and as powerful as individual image are, I have not found one that attempts to be all things to all people all the time. Some consider this to be a weakness or gap. While being aware of what is missing, I find myself choosing to see the positive that each character brings to our awareness.
It was amusing to realize that the reality of how this plays out is found in old writings as well as new. David comment reflects that gaps within each, including you and me. “Disciples so often get into trouble; still, God is there every time.” (Psalm 34.19)
God chooses to see the positive while hating the gaps and flaws. In my experience, Divinity’s response is to celebrate the good things in life while working to help us deal with what is missing. There is something wonderfully crazy about this. The gaps in our lives are reminders that help is available. Another way of seeing this, each failure is an invitation to embrace Divinity’s offer to make a difference in our lives. In turn, we can make a difference in the lives of those around us.
I see imperfections in my life. The insight has a sweet edge to it; God is here, celebrating what works, making a difference with our gaps and flaws.
