Guesstures

Last month we were at a friends’ home for a visit and while there we played a game called Guesstures, a game of charades. It was hysterical. We enjoyed trying to get our team mates to guess a word by acting out clues or even running to quickly find the object somewhere around the house. After we were done, our host brought to our attention that there are people who really dislike playing that game; they hate it because in playing it they emotionally expose themselves. It makes them fear looking like less then they think they are; a form of idolatry. Idolatry? Websters says idolatry is excessive attachment or veneration for anything; respect or love which borders on adoration (italics mine). Of course then I had to look up veneration: respect or awe inspired by the dignity, wisdom, dedication, or talent of a person.

In my mind I questioned his statement. Really? I thought, isn’t it silly that people would be afraid of playing a good natured game like Guesstures. Sad that they would feel exposed.

After his comment I was thinking that even though I played that game last month with friends, I’m not sure that I would jump in and play with a group of people that intimidate me. Nope, probably not. It might make me look silly, or weird, or even (gasp) exposed. He was right.

I must portray an image of my talents, good qualities and looks that will convince others of my worth. And I have gotten so good at portraying this image, that I am very careful not to jeopardize that image by doing something that shows my inabilities. I don’t often go out of the house with out make-up on. I won’t try new sports unless I think I can do it. I make sure that the house is picked up before people come over. I always fold my husband’s shirts the way he likes. I serve tasty meals to guests. I read and reread this as I type to catch mistakes. And the list goes on…

Why do we make life about us? We pigeon hole people so we feel comfortable about ourselves. If I know what others are about then I know where they fit in my ranking. Every once and a while I meet people I can’t feel comfortable around. People more attractive, smarter or more physically fit. People talented and gifted in areas that I wish were among my talents and gifts. They intimidate me. And around them I am extra careful to cast the image that makes me look good… not Christ’s image, mine. That is “excessive attachment to the dignity, wisdom, dedication, or talent of a person”, self idolatry.

I know all the pat answers. Our value lies in Christ; he has shown that value in his self sacrifice on the cross. We should love others as he loved us, because we are made into a new creation in his image, etc. But to tell you the truth, right now I like being disgusted with myself. It reminds me that I’m dirt, I’m depraved and filthy as rags and not in any way worthy to be idolized, by anyone. This life is not about me; it’s about how good God is.

If my motives are not Christ centered motives, I’ll always have this struggle. Maybe I should play games that make me squirm. Anyone for S-S-Scrabble?