Is That Me?
Is That Me?

Is That Me?

Recently, the FoxNews website published a slideshow entitled, “Stars who lost their mojo.” To accomplish that mission, they sought to inform readers of the whereabouts of some famous stars from yesteryear. And while a picture may be worth a thousand words, it is evident that only a few words were needed to document some of their falls from fame— and youth.

For example, let’s use a 1997 image and observation of Brendan Fraser. That year, he played the modern version of Tarzan and lit up Silver screens across the fruited plain. With admiration, the pundits wax:

Fraser was a Hollywood heartthrob and Disney’s golden boy when “George of the Jungle” became a smash hit for the studio. Fraser’s abs, pecs and flowing mane were the talk of Tinseltown.

But fifteen years later, a new reality unfolds. After locating Brendan in the parking lot of a Los Angeles supermarket, the Paparazzi’s work begins. Focus. Flash. Shoot. And with the resulting image now broadcast across the web, media artisans provide a less than favorable report card.

The 43-year-old actor’s six-pack is more like a pony keg, and the Tarzan hair has been replaced with a shorter, wispier version.

And with these images and words now seared into our Cerebral cortex, we look to the heavens and proclaim our thankfulness that we are not the ones being held up by the media as “fallen angels.” But while avoiding this attention, for some of us, glimpses of our own image may bring a sigh. And questions, too. Where have the years gone? How quickly have the days of our youth passed us by? And still yet, what am I to do with these aches, creaks, and wrinkles?

Is that really me who I see in the mirror?

Indeed, it is! But is that person someone to fear, or rather, someone to whom God has revealed much? Well, now that I’ve captured your attention, I would like to pose still another question:

If it were possible for you to turn back time and return to the days of your youth, would you?

Now before you respond, I urge you to consider just Who has been walking with you for these past many years. And in doing so, just Who has been forming, urging, prodding, healing, and sanctifying you?

In the Gospel of Luke, after Jesus’ return from the temple, it is said that He increased in wisdom and in stature, and in favor with God and man. Perhaps the same can be said about us. In walking with Jesus these many years, are we not more loving, empathetic, and understanding?

In walking with, and toward, Jesus, He has transformed us into an even more perfect image than found in the days of our youth. And so, the next time a mirror extends an invitation, be sure to look closely and ask.

Is that me?

You bet.

Written by
Deacon Kurt Godfryd

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