IMG_5889

Halloween was always one of Christopher’s and my favorite just-for-fun holidays! It is a day when you can really let your creativity show, and it’s somewhat acceptable to go out in costume.

Every year, Toph (his nickname) would make his costume even more hilarious and outrageous than the year before. And he always seemed to pick something creative and relevant to what was happening that year.

One of my favorites was the year he dressed up as the infamous iPod commercial with the dancing silhouette on the white backdrop. He actually went as far as strapping an iPod to his back, so you could hear the music playing in his headphones while he was dancing around!

He was so much fun, and I miss him so much and so look forward to seeing him again in heaven.

In real life, though, sometimes we don’t just hide behind masks on Halloween. Many people do it all the time.

With God, however, there is no dressing up and pretending to be something we are not. The Lord sees us for what is really in our hearts, no matter what. Even the most creative costume or performance we put on can’t hide that.

God does not want us to pretend to be something we are not. He wants us to share our true heart and feelings with Him. Yes, the Lord loves to hear us sing His praises, but He also wants us to cry out to Him in times of need.

Sometimes, with others around us, we feel the need to hide our true emotions and put on a smile, but with God there is no need.

I know, dear God, that you care nothing for the surface—you want us, our true selves—and so I have given from the heart, honestly and happily. (1 Chronicles 29:17 the message)

So, during this season when we have fun getting creative with our costumes, I like to reflect on what an amazing God we have! We serve a God who wants us to come to Him in everything, just as we are . . . no masks, first thing in the morning when we wake, no matter what is on our hearts. He loves us unconditionally.

How great is our God!

IMG_5892