Feb 20th, 2020: Appearance
Some people care deeply about their appearance. They would protect it at all costs. Some politicians and celebrities have no shame about doing that. Our mind is shallow, and our spirit is hollow in dealing with the superficiality of our appearance.
Appearance also has gone further than how one looks. We have to deal with the pretend appearance of speaking the right language, talking about the right issues, and affirming the ongoing concerns. How often have we heard politicians use the term "systemic racism" lately? Getting on the bandwagon is another form of appearance.
Appearance, therefore, has become a deception. The latest is the appearance of standing for the truth from various news networks in the US. The power to deceive has gone very deep, and it is hard for us to discern the truth. News anchors show up with the appearance of their self-righteousness to condemn one another. We are no longer watching the news. We are judging a boxing match between news networks where they use their airtime as boxing matches.
Finally, we appear as if we are fighting for equality. We don't find equality by stating that one racial group needs to have special treatment from the government when running their business. Giving handouts is not fighting for equality. It is demeaning because it implies that these folks can't compete fairly. It takes away healthy human pride, and it prolongs unnecessary shame.
Matthew 23:28
"So you also outwardly appear righteous to others, but within you are full of hypocrisy and lawlessness."
John 7: 24
"Do not judge by appearances, but judge with right judgment."