Masking our Weaknesses

Carl never likes to show his weakness. When he is distraught, instead of whimpering and demonstrating a feebleness in his character, he will bellow out a howl of authority and strength. The sad thing about this action, is that instead of drawing comfort, I usually will end up yelling at him to stop being so loud.

I can’t find fought in this action because I know that I can be just as guilty. When I feel vulnerable and in need of another’s comfort, I usually will mask it with an independent spirit.

Why is it that most of us want to appear strong, without a need for others? Are we much more concerned about how others think of us that we neglect one of our basic human needs, to be comforted?

Jesus saw right through this human flaw. He was constantly challenging his own disciples to shed off their pride, and admit their weaknesses. Even after three years of being with Jesus, Peter still wanted to hold onto his human strength and refused to admit his weakness in character.

After Jesus told Peter that he would deny him three times before the rooster crowed, Peter refused to believe that he could do such a thing.

Matthew 26: 69-75 paints a picture of a man who not only betrayed his best friend but did it in a very short period of time.

“Now Peter sat outside in the courtyard. And a servant girl came to him, saying, “You also were with Jesus of Galilee.”

But he denied it before them all, saying, “I do not know what you are saying.”

And when he had gone out to the gateway, another girl saw him and said to those who were there, “This fellow also was with Jesus of Nazareth.”

But again he denied with an oath, “I do not know the Man!”

And a little later those who stood by came up and said to Peter, “Surely you also are one of them, for your speech betrays you.”

Then he began to curse and swear, saying, “I do not know the Man!”

Immediately a rooster crowed.  And Peter remembered the word of Jesus who had said to him, “Before the rooster crows, you will deny Me three times.” So he went out and wept bitterly.”

We all can relate to Peter in this situation. Instead of admitting his fear, Peter acted like he had it all under control. Choosing a strong demeanor over admitting weakness demonstrated for all mankind the flaw that we all possess.

No matter how much I want Carl to change, I know in my heart that he will choose to act like he doesn’t have a feeble bone in his body. On the other hand, I can only hope that I will be willing to become weak so that God can transform me by his strength.