Thin Veneer
Whoever walks in integrity walks securely, but he who makes his ways crooked will be found out. Proverbs 10:9
Several years ago, I found a roll-top desk (for free) and was so grateful. I believed it to be very old and in great shape. And it wasn’t until I put a plant on the edge over the winter and probably watered it too much, because when I moved the plant, I also removed the veneer with it.
I was heartbroken on two counts: I thought it had been the real deal but the water had done some serious damage to it. Granted, it still served a purpose and I was the only one who saw it or knew what happened, but it still made me feel irritated ever time I looked at it. How could I possibly think that anyone would give away a free (but solid wood) desk like that?
Sure, I could buy some new veneer and match it, cover it up and call it good. I might even be able to get a few bucks for it. But I know the story!
I think most of us have a thin veneer finish that covers some less-than-perfect wood. We try to act all cool, calm, and collected when in fact we have lots of gnarly knots in there. (God help the person who uncovers our secrets!) We often melt down in self-defense and claim ignorance, but we know the truth.
Did the builder try to fool us? I hardly think so! What’s wrong with imperfection? There is beauty in nature. So why cover it up, just to make it more appealing to the human eye?
My desk cannot change. It was crafted by someone who wanted it to look pretty. However, we can change everything we think, say and do. That thin veneer we often nail on is covering up who we were created to be—and besides, God knows what’s under that flimsy, fake surface.
Daily we can pick and choose what color or thickness we want to wear. Count the cost! What’s wrong with the real you? The One true Creator fashioned us for a purpose. If we find ourselves wanting to cover things in our lives, perhaps we should talk with Him. I’m convinced He has the best customer service skills in the universe!
Loving Father, Your Word says that You love us regardless! I’m not sure how that is even possible, but I am so very grateful that I do not have to pretend anything with You. Help me to be more genuine with others. AMEN.