I was reading about what’s called the ‘Imposter Syndrome’. Usually hits very successful people. People with power and wealth. That we envy? Maybe. Maybe not. For many of them, the fear of being discovered, called out as the fakes, phonies, ands imposters that they feel they really are, absolutely shivers their timbers. If only others knew, giving them the jitters from being called a playactor or worse, a wolf in sheep’s clothing, rather than the real thing.

Probably, there’s some of this in each of us, if we’re honest. The person we present to the world somehow lacks genuineness and transparency. We’re not all we’re cracked up to be. The person inside does not match the one outside. Know what I mean? Again, if they only knew.

Like how mean-spirited I can be in my thoughts. The revenge I’d like to see happen while writing about forgiveness and kindness. Those cutting thoughts about someone I consider a friend. That I can be hard-headed and harder-hearted. I could go on and on, but I fear you’ll discover the real person within me! Or will you?

Reading John 15, I’m challenged to hear what Jesus says. To listen intently and without distraction, if that’s possible. Lend Him my ears. And, most of all, to believe what He says. Like what? That I’m a child of God (vs.1-5). Really? That I’ll grow closer to Jesus as I follow Him. Honestly? That my life will be productive for the Lord and others (vs.5-8). No kidding? This is the real deal. Jesus isn’t faking it. But remember, it’s only as long as we stay close to Him. And you know whether you are or aren’t. Don’t you?

Prayer matters (v.7). Not so much my feeble words as the One who answers prayer. And that I’m loved by God the Father and by Jesus, His only Son (v.9). Chew on that for a while. That Jesus calls me His friend (v. 15). Can you imagine? He’s not really that desperate, is He? No! But if He only knew the real me. If only. But He does. Everything. Through and through.

Reading this chapter from John’s Gospel, I’m challenged to believe what Jesus says. Be all in. Allow His promises to sink in for a change, crowding out that imposter feeling of being a phony-baloney Christian. If only He knew. Well, as I said before, He does. Still, He gives His promises. It’s not about me and how good I am. For good I’m not, truth be told. You want good? Look above to the Lord.

So, I’m taking Him at His Word. Yes, two steps forward, one back, remembering that Jesus is patient with the likes of me…and you. After all, He’s our friend. Remember? While you’re at it, take that syndrome and cross it out with all that our Lord did and does, said and says. And stand tall. Standing on what? Right! His promises.

Thank you, Lord Jesus, for calling me your friend. Amen.