Now, In a Mirror Dimly

It's easy to hate someone from a distance...

...but turn their world upside down and draw close enough to see beyond the reflections from afar.

As I do not always see the world and all that is beyond it clearly - for there is much that still remains an enigma - why do I so easily assume that what I see in a moment's breath is all there there is to say about a matter - or more intently - a person?  Maybe you know where I'm coming from.

Just as the beauty of this world viewed through a tainted reflection may distort the picture - revealing ripples and flaws in the character of our interest - so too, the veil of distance can sometimes cover over the beauty of a heart. 

One of my favorite passages from a letter to the Corinthian church of old comes from the apostle Paul.

"For now, we see in a mirror dimly, but then, face to face. Now I know in part, but then I will know fully, just as I also have been fully known."  (I Corinthians 13:12 NASB)

For now, we see in a mirror - (en ainigmati) an enigma - a riddle - to be more literal in the translation. (I must admit that I do enjoy words and the depth of meaning revealed in their use.)

The context speaks of sharing words, thoughts, gifts & actions - utilizing the giftedness that God's Spirit gives freely.  However, all of that, if done without love is Empty!

To speak - to respond - to act - to give - without some consideration for love...what good does that do?  What would it look like to draw close enough to that person we despise - that twit who tweets with anger and judgment - that neighbor who gets under our skin...

...to draw close enough - even in our world that may be turned upside down...

...and see them face to face, and to try to love them, despite our flaws?

Would it change anything?