The Mask

Do I really know you? do you really know me?

The majority of us are experts in hiding behind the tree.

When we gather for Sunday bring and share,

Forgive me if I only look and stare.

I've come to recognise that there are times when the mask can no longer hide the pain,

The reality is, that I can no longer walk down this lonely lane.

We need to be real, we need to be true,

It's then that our love for one another will truly shine through.

Discernment is a gift that is greatly lacking,

Ask God to use you to help those who may be cracking.

I can easily slip the mask on when in a crowd,

and slip back into my shell when this tragedy rings loud.

Let's help each other to take off our mask,

Even when they don't appear to want to or ask.

The day is coming when our masks will be gone without a trace,

It's the glorious day when we see Jesus face to face.

For now let us get to know each other’s weaknesses and all,

For then we can truly begin to sense His true call.

Alan Howes

“We who are strong have an obligation to bear with the failings of the weak, and not to please ourselves. 2Let each of us please his neighbour for his good, to build him up” Romans 15:1-2

Prayer - Lord we are all broken vessels to some degree. Would you please help us to look out for those who are particularly struggling in their brokenness. Give us discernment in reaching out to those around us. Amen.