The Story of Adam and Eve hiding in the garden after eating the forbidden fruit is repeated over and over again in our everyday lives. When we sin, we feel guilt and shame and are driven to hide our brokenness and weakness from others. We fool ourselves into thinking that our sin is hidden and that its effects are contained, hopefully, and invisible to others. Our ego projects an image of healthiness and strength, but our spirit knows the reality of the wounds, separation, and darkness that conflict within us.

Jesus came as the light of the world to dispel the darkness and set us free from the tyranny of sin and secrets. His searing light reveals our deepest darkest secrets, not to terrorise or denounce us, but rather to allow our woundedness to be healed by his mercy and love. Lies, deceit, secrecy and division are the hallmarks of the evil one, who seeks to entrap us in our weakness and sinfulness.

All will be revealed in the world to come where there is nothing hidden, nor secret that will not come to light. If we embrace honesty, truth, humility and forgiveness then we have no need to fear or hide away our brokenness but rather turn it into a stepping stone to healing and wholeness. The power of testimony to turn weakness into strength is the tool used by the Twelve Step programs to help people overcome their addictions.

Today, may we let go of a secret that entraps us and ask God to flood us with his healing light. Amen.

by Mike Humphrys