A friend recommended a book with an interesting title, Standing Naked Before God: The Art of Public Confession. The title alone can bring a check in one’s spirit. To stand before God with no covering, no excuses, no churchy words…
A small child may read the title, giggle, and not give it another thought. One might think it is because of the word, “Naked.” But he has no need to fear baring his soul to God. She knows God loves her just the way she is and she doesn’t need to hide anything.
When did the rest of us forget that? When did we decide that God demands our Sunday best? Our emotions must be neatly pressed, thoughts crystal clear, and hearts as white as grandpa’s new handkerchief. Our prayers must have plenty of Thee's and Thou's, and always say, “Thank you” before you say, “please.”
For me, standing naked before God means that there is trust that God knows us and loves us anyway. God sees our impurities, our wounds, and the “sewage in our hearts” and says, “I can help you with that.”
I hear it as an invitation similar to the one Moses experienced at the burning bush, “Take off your shoes. You’re on holy ground.”
Go ahead, sink your toes into holiness, let the breath of God refresh your spirit, and free you to make a difference in the world.
Having nothing to hide doesn’t mean we’re perfect. It means we are loved.
Pastor Jo
April 27, 2022