Truth without Disguise

In the chapter titled “Charity” of Dr. Wallace Goddard’s book “Drawing heaven into your marriage: powerful principles with eternal results,” he shares the following quote from C.S. Lewis:

“…surely what a man does when he is taken off his guard is the best evidence for what sort of a man he is. Surely what pops out before the man has time to put on a disguise is the truth.” (Goddard, 2007, pg. 108)

I share this quote with you because when I read it the first time it struck me right to the core. I had to read it a couple times as I let it really sink in. After processing it for a bit my thoughts were turned toward my family and the way I sometimes react to their mishaps. I hated the memories that came back to me of the times that my “truth” had come out before I have a chance to put on my disguise. Thankfully, the memories in this regard were short but still sad that I have them.

Dr. Goddard followed C.S. Lewis’s quote with a few thoughts of his own on the matter. He said, “The natural man is likely to find that resentment and vindictiveness come more easily than charity. More than we realize, those negative reactions are a choice—a choice to see in a human, judgmental way. But we can also choose to see in a heavenly and loving way. That choice makes all the difference. Charity can be the lens through which we see each other.” (Goddard, 2007, pg. 108) I like that he reminded us that we have a choice. He is correct, the choice of negativity is much simpler. Unfortunately, the choice of ease also brings feelings of turmoil and sorrow once we realize how we reacted toward our loved ones. The reverse though of choosing the “heavenly and loving way” helps us gain the immense reward of peace and happiness.

To further the reward of peace and happiness, choosing charity also gives us the opportunity to become more Christlike. As Dr. Goddard continues to remind us, “As in all things, Jesus is the perfect example of charity. He is also our unfailing mentor as we work to develop charity.” (Goddard, 2007, pg. 108) What a thrill to have Jesus as our mentor! Seeking to be like Him in showing charity to our loved ones can only create in ourselves a better person and someone that He can help spread His love.

Goddard, H. W. (2007). Drawing heaven into your marriage: powerful principles with eternal results. Fairfax, VA: Meridian Pub.