A weakness of our human nature is that we need people to see us and acknowledge our achievements. We want to be noticed and praised. Very often, we try to make this happen by exaggerating who we are and what we’ve done or said. We put our best selves forward in public situations and wait for others to become aware of us.
The excerpt from the Gospel reading reminds me of the saying “keeping us with the Jones’.” The Jones’ drive a fancy car, go on exotic holidays and are always entertaining. They seem to have “made it.” Their apparent success tempts me to strive for the same so that people will see and notice me, too. The material success indicates that I am important and that people like me; good
things are said about me, and I have a boosted sense of self.
Another image that is conjured up for me is that of a peacock, displaying his oh-so-beautiful tail feathers, chest feathers puffed up and obvious, and his head cocked in a “just look at me” way. On display, he is putting on a show that draws attention.
Contrary to this, we may be criticised or ridiculed for something. Being ill thought of can be catastrophic to us, causing anger or depressive thoughts. We are left licking the sores of our wounded pride.
I think that this Gospel reading is calling us to evaluate our self-worth.
Are we reliant on the opinions and thoughts of others, or are we happy with who we are, the way that God has created us?
Reflect on your self-worth and its source. Do you portray a false image of yourself to others? How can you let the ‘true you’ be seen?
Reflections by Gillian Hugo
