Day 18: Take off the Mask

In Jesus’ day, prayer had become a spectator sport. He criticized and challenged the “hypocrites” who were trying to impress others with their public show of devotion. Think about that strong word Jesus used- hypocrite. The term was used for actors, who at that time wore masks. Some masks had megaphones built in so the actor’s words would not be muffled. And often, the same actor would play several roles using a different mask for each- think Eddie Murphy in the Nutty Professor movie. Jesus wasn’t fooled- he saw right through these spiritual posers.

Unfortunately, for many people today, religious devotion is still a show. They’re trying to impress others with their piety rather than authentically bowing down and posturing their hearts before the Lord. Notice that Jesus didn’t mince words in calling out such playacting and He doesn’t with us either. Let’s strive by God’s grace to be the real deal before the Lord and quit trying to impress people we won’t see or be with us when we stand before Christ. True prayer is an honest encounter with God. We’re not performing- for Him or anyone else. We’re just talking….and listening to the father. Let’s keep it simple.

Our prayer target today is to find some time in the day to get alone and open our hearts to the Lord. Speak to Him like you typically speak. Listen for Him and try to press through the awkwardness. Read his word as if Jesus was with you in the room. Be real and seek to be the real deal wherever you go by His grace.

One more thing while you’re at it. Ask God to shine His spotlight on your life, not as a performer but as a lab specimen. Be like David, who said, “Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me and lead me in the way everlasting. (Psalm 139:23-34) There is no need to fear the answer, especially if we remember that the Lord disciplines the ones He loves (Heb. 12:6).

Let’s not be satisfied more with a public image of religious devotion rather than authentically being devoted to Christ. It’s time to put down the masks, let God see the real you, and allow Him to do the change inside of you He really wants.

Psalm 19:14 Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer.

Matthew 6:5 And when you pray, you must not be like the hypocrites. For they love to stand and pray in the synagogues and at the street corners, that they may be seen by others. Truly, I say to you, they have received their reward.