When I was a little girl, I enjoyed the Hidden Pictures and the Difference Between Two Pictures that were activities in the Highlights for Children Magazine. I would spend some time searching the pictures for the slightest difference that had been strategically placed. There was a sense of accomplishment as I circled the differences or found the hidden objects. I was seeking and earnestly trying to find. Seeing was believing. However, sometimes what we think we see isn’t the reality at all.
As a Partner of Faith Lutheran Church, I am reading The Road Back to You by Ian Morgan Cron. Through the reading, I might get a glimpse into who I am or what my human personality reflects. I am realizing that I “think” I know myself, but probably not as well as I thought. If I’m surprised by the results, then my family and friends might be too. Or…do they see what I see or someone totally different? What personality trait do I radiate? Will their perception match my results after I take my Enneagram Assessment? Do they see what I see?
Our reflection in a mirror showcases our external characteristics, but obviously cannot fully embrace the personality, the beauty or hardship that lives within. I ask myself the question, when one looks at another, are we really looking? Are we earnestly trying to find and know a person’s spirit and soul? Do you see what I see? Are we only seeing the external and not seeking a deeper look into what makes each of us unique and who we really are and what matters to us? I personally find great peace and comfort in knowing that each of us is fully known and loved by God. 1 Corinthians: 13:12 For we see only a reflection as in a mirror, then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known.
How overwhelming and powerful to be loved so deeply and known so well by God. I believe our personality and what lives within us is gifted to us so that we can be what God needs us to be while we inhabit our earthly homes. Because this is a remarkable gift, shouldn’t we find value in seeing more of others than what reflects in a mirror? Shouldn’t we earnestly seek a deeper look into one another’s spirit and soul and dare I say…personality? These are questions I ask myself.
Psalms 139: 1-4 O Lord, YOU have examined my heart and know everything about me. You know when I sit or stand. When far away you know my every thought. You chart the path ahead of me, and tell me where to stop and rest. Every moment, you know where I am. You know what I am going to say before I even say it. You both precede and follow me, and place your hand of blessing on my head.
So, let me close by asking the question, Do You See What I See? You might not, but what I know for sure is that I am truly known and perfectly loved, even more clearly and honestly than I know and love myself. There are no hidden pictures with God. There are no differences between two pictures with God. All He sees is His children and He holds a love that is deeper and wider than we can even imagine…no matter what your Enneagram Assessment reveals.
Amen
Denise Ludwig
07/14/2020