The Mirror
What She Said - Part 6
Sherry Bitler, Guest Writer
Today’s Treasure
Why do you see the speck that is in your brother’s eye but do not notice the log that is in your own eye?
Matthew 7:3
“Mirror, mirror on the wall, who is fairest of them all?” You probably remember this famous quote from the movie, SNOW WHITE. The character in this familiar fairy tale struggled with some serious jealousy issues as she peered into her mirror asking that question, hoping the answer was “you are.”
For most of us, mirrors are part of everyday life. I use a full-length mirror to evaluate my image. Ideally, I just glance to make sure that buttons are buttoned, shoes match, and there is no glaring problem with my outfit choice. But, realistically, I also look to satisfy myself that what I chose is flattering or projects the image I want to share that day. While good grooming is my felt goal, vanity is its companion.
I use my ‘over the sink’ mirror for practical things like brushing my teeth correctly, drying my hair with the proper blow-dry styling techniques, and successfully applying eye drops when needed.
My magnifying mirror hanging in the bathroom helps me apply makeup now that my eyesight is less than 20/20. Generally, I will take my standard products from the drawer and set them on the sink. One by one, I add the touches to “make up” for what I feel are shortcomings in my ‘raw’ appearance. At times, I examine my skin for imperfections or straggly hairs in the wrong place. The mirror is a tool to help me complement or make repairs. Admittedly, my appearance matters to me. Our culture is constantly encouraging us to avoid aging. I am smart enough to know that is impossible (unless you opt for surgeries). My granddaughter sweetly encourages me: “You still look great Grammie.” I know that what flows from my heart is more beautiful than anything my mirror can reflect. I hope I am showing her that is true.
The Lord has used my mirror to bring a spiritual illustration to mind. The reality is that I am a sinner. Even my best attempts at living to honor the Lord fall short. It is common to look at others – even if only silently in my mind – and criticize their actions. Perhaps finding fault in others makes us feel better about ourselves, maybe more righteous, even if only subconsciously. My mirror allows me to look at myself first before I look at others critically. Is it possible that what irritates me or makes me question others is really what irritates me about myself? My mirror may only cast a physical reflection, but as a child of God, I can use it as a reminder that I need spiritual reflection. I need to regularly search my heart.
My husband and I have lived ‘retired’ together now for six years. It is the first time in almost 50 years of marriage that we do life together 24/7. It is a new and different chapter, and I admit the transition has sometimes been challenging for both of us. The Holy Spirit puts Today’s Treasure on my mind often as I begin to become irritated with something little. My mirror reminds me there are times when I am a source of irritation and He offers me grace. I appreciate grace. I am learning to pause and remember I want to treat others the way I like to be treated.
Jesus is our “beyond reason” model of grace. Nothing I experience mirrors His sacrifice for me -- His Grace to me -- on the cross. Grace can be hard to offer to others unless I call on the Lord for His grace.
PRAYER
Dear Father – Please empower me to live a life of grace to others.
Are there other women in your life who could benefit from a daily dose of encouragement? Forward this email so they can click on this link to Subscribe to Daily Treasure to be better equipped to walk by faith on the pathway God has marked out for them.
Sharon W. Betters is author of Treasures of Encouragement, Treasures in Darkness, co-author of Treasures of Faith. and co-author with Susan Hunt of Aging with Grace, Flourishing in an Anti-Aging Culture. She is Director of Resource Development and co-founder of MARKINC.org, a non-profit organization that offers help and hope to hurting people. Sharon enjoys quality time with her husband, children, fourteen grandchildren, and one great-grandchild.
Contact Sharon with comments or questions at dailytreasure@markinc.org.