As I thought about the words, the meaning, and the significance of that song tonight, I realized that its message represents a lot of my recent frustrations. Frustrations with myself, but also with people around me whom I know and care about, and even those whom I do not know. These frustrations stem from the way we all just keep to ourselves so much. TOO much. This doesn't bother me because I wish to "know people's business", no. It bothers me because it robs the world of blessing. It robs those around us, of love.
We tend to be so cautious about how much HEART we pour out on each other. We limit the amount of SOUL INTERACTION with others. I don't think that's a good thing. I don't believe we're supposed to hide our hearts from others as much as we do. We justify our "hiding", by declaring the "need" for privacy, or by thinking that we will be endangered somehow, or overly vulnerable to wound infliction from others. I could analyze all the reasons why we hide our hearts, but that would make this too long. So I will just keep the message simple:
Don't hide your heart away from those in your sphere of influence. GIVE IT away freely. And see what happens.
Jesus didn't hide His heart from anyone. He opened it unconditionally and poured it out on everyone around Him. And they loved Him for it. They knew how He felt about them. They knew He loved them, because He demonstrated it without reservation. Jesus was real with people. He spoke honestly to them. He spoke lovingly to them. He was filled with boldness and meekness at the same time. Not cowering, but welcoming others, even seeking them. Revealing His heart without condition or expectation of renumeration.
If you've ever heard a person say of another person, "He's ALL HEART", I would venture to say that it was intended to be a compliment. It's not a weakness or foolishness. It's a blessing! It's bold and strong and good.
The people we feel most connected to are the people who have not kept their hearts hidden from us. I am not suggesting we should all be open books for the world to read. I AM suggesting we take seriously Matthew 5:15-17, which tells us "we are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp, and put it under a basket, but on a stand- and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven." (Like we used to sing as kids, 'Hide it under a bushel? NO!! I'm gonna let it shine!')
Every time you open your heart to someone, even just to smile or meet their eyes with kindness, or speak an encouraging word, or lend a hand or a hug--- YOU ARE BEING LIGHT to that someone. You don't do this so people will say how wonderful you are. You do it so people will say how wonderful GOD is. You give the glory to Him. And the people notice, and they listen. And many times, they totally get it and they stand in agreement with you about it. It's so awesome when that happens. People are ready to be led by YOUR HEART LIGHT!
To close, I am posting part of the song lyrics for "Hidden Away". Read these with the mindset of opening your heart, showing your heart, revealing it - to those around you who NEED to see it! Your expected end WILL be blessing. Blessing to you and to the recipients, and to Jesus Himself.
Be the bright city on the hill. BE THE LAMP ON THE STAND.
"Hidden Away"
And all these words you were meant to say
Held in silence day after day
Words of kindness that our poor hearts crave
Please don't keep them hidden away
I want to free your heart, I want to see your heart
Please don't keep your heart hidden away!
You're a wonder, how bright you shine
A flickered candle in a short lifetime
A secret dreamer that never shows
If no one sees you then no one knows
Sing it out, so I can finally breathe in
I can take in all the same
Reaching out for someone I believe in
All I really need today
I want to feel your love. Will you reveal your love?
Please don't keep your love hidden away.
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