Faces…

Faces…8-26-25

I look at my students faces when I am teaching. As I ask questions, explain, draw pictures, assess for understanding, and help each individual student, I look at their face. I can see when they are struggling. I can see when the light bulb comes on. I can see frustration or uncertainty. I can see boredom, anxiety, depression, joy, and orneriness. I can see disrespect, anger, sadness, and pain. Every face, no matter how guarded, will slip and let the observer have a sneak peek of the emotions and feelings within. Students are not as guarded as adults. Most of my students don’t hide their feelings well. They don’t see the need or haven’t had to. They are open and willing to express to others. Most students!

Then, there are other students who have had to put on a mask and hide. They have to hide their feelings well. No one can see the truth, the horrible, the scary, and the pain. Sometimes, this mask doesn’t come off for anyone. Sometimes, only a select few are allowed in. I was that student. I was that child. Sometimes, I am that adult. My mask did not come off for anyone. I was afraid to say anything about even the best of circumstances. If no one knew, others would be harmed because of my actions. My mask became a symbol of survival until that one day, when it slipped.

You see, as Christians, sometimes we hide behind a fake persona. We want all others to think that everything is rosy. Following God is easy. Being a believer means all is well with the world. That’s not realistic or Biblical. In fact, the contrary is true. Our future is an everlasting home with The Lord. Our present will be filled with struggles, trials, and challenges. But, and I praise God, but there will be blessings and opportunities for growth. Among the thorns are roses. Among the briars are sweet berries.

James 1:2-4 says, "Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be mature and complete, lacking in nothing".

I have friends who I can watch their face and see the struggle. I can see the pain. There is no pity there, only prayer. That is what a true believer and Sister or Brother-in-Christ does, they pray! They pray for others as they are tested and their faith grows stronger. They pray for others as they face challenges. They pray for others as they experience joy and heartbreak. They don’t need to always be told the circumstances. Sometimes they see their face, and they know. Then they pray.