I John 4:16 We know and rely on the love God has for us

As I looked out my window from the hotel in Dallas, Texas, I faced the back of a shopping center. From this view I could see all the unattractive aspects of this strip center not visible to potential customers. I saw dumpsters - some filled to overflowing with garbage, peeling paint, moldy siding and general litter.

This is certainly a different look than the view stores project from the front side. Usually, each store has a display window- beautifully appointed to lure the potential customer into the store. There may be a slogan displayed to catch your eye, or perhaps even a free snack to entice you inside. What a difference, I thought, from the front to the back. The “show side”, all pretty and clean compared to the much less desirable “back side”.

Many people are similar to these stores. Putting on our “best” around others; showing them only what we want them to see. In each person there are more undesirable traits- the garbage mildew and litter which we know about ourselves, but do not show to others.

There is one, however, who sees all sided of us. It is our wonderful God. He “sees it all”- the dirty, grimy, ugly parts, as well as the storefront spic and span. He loves us unconditionally, no matter what. God sees it all- and loves me, and you, anyway! I think that is so remarkable. Truly we have an awesome God- His special love is always available to anyone who desires to accept it.

Marion Smith, noles65@aol.com