We sometimes struggle with the need to please others; to meet the expectations of family members, relatives, friends, colleagues and even church members. We choose to be not 'who we truly are' but 'who we think others would want us to be.' Hypocrisy can be such a painful and lonely thing - it is slavery to a false identity that we think will guarantee popularity and acceptance. And yet we remain so fearful that if our true identity is ever disclosed, rejection will follow.

It is important to realize the fragility of life that depends on external opinion. Ultimately, in spite of all our pretenses and 'masks', God sees us for who we truly are - 'what is hidden will be uncovered, everything now hidden will be made clear'. This exposes the futility of pretending to be 'who' we are not. Before the God of Truth who is Truth, all things are laid bare. We also come to realize that our worthiness does not depend on our own efforts, schemes or the opinion of others but lies with God who immeasurably values us. For He is the God who has counted every hair on our head and does not forget the least of His creatures, even the sparrows.