Almost every conversation yesterday included a brief section on labels; people falling into a category, reinforcing someone’s bias or belief about them. The range from extremely complementary to self-focused reflected the range of human emotions and states of being. I wish I believed or even hoped that many of the labels did not apply. While not dictating or predicting what anyone will do in their next decision, the past clearly supports the conversation’s description of their actions, choices, and decisions.
I wonder what label I wear and why. I know certain people wear rose-colored glasses and for that I will always be thankful for, especially when it comes to my two girls. I understand that some see me in crisp, distinct, somewhat non-complementary ways, and in this area, I hope that my future is brighter than my past. I wonder about those in the middle. Do they find me interesting, insightful, or helpful? I fear most being boring and a friendship of no value – for this people spit you out with enthusiasm!
I look around and continue to discover fellow travelers in my boat. It seems many of us fear for our reputations; or rather, the potential way people can get on without us! We just are not attractive, surprised?
I find myself, even though I know better, trying to work things out with God. I do not like the label I wear, sinner, and I want to change it. I assume that striving to make myself better is something a goal for all of us. Actually, I am wrong. I cannot make it. I will not be able to change myself on the inside – dress up the veneer yes! Change the content and motives in my life, no.
God knows all this and more. God knows and offers us the gift of unconditional relationship, love, and grace. “We call Abraham ‘father’ not because he got God’s attention by living like a saint, but because God made something out of Abraham when he was a nobody.” (Romans 4.17)
God gives you and I labels, his beloved.
