"THE MASK"

By Irving Serrano

I would like to share a story with you. About a young man, born into a fairly large family. Like most people He had brothers, and sisters. At the head of the family were two loving parents, they worked and always made sure all of their children were clothed and fed. Though they lived modestly, they really never were in need of anything.Both parents were Christians, who believed in Jesus Christ, and made it a point to teach their children, about God, and the power of prayer. So this child, grew up to be a young man. Now in his teens, he acknowledged what Christianity was about, and he also had other distractions. He had seen things in the streets that would catch his attention. The language, the music, even the way people would wear their hair. One day, this young man decided to put on a mask. In his way of thinking, this mask would allow him to enter places he otherwise would not enter. Though he new right from wrong, he also accredited himself for curiously trying to engage in life as those he saw living differently. So by wearing this mask, it seemed he was accepted. Friends every wear, it appeared to be a cool thing, to fraternize with the fellas at the local hang out. Wearing the mask would make him feel as if he had more strength. Courage to go out and do mischief. There were times when coming home, he was scolded, and even punished by his parents. Little did he know, his parents did know what they were talking about. It wasn`t long before this young man found himself in some pretty dangerous situations. As time passed some of his friends were killed. Others were sent to jail. And most of them were never going to get back out. There was something looking out for this young man, but even he knew, it wasn`t him. He always knew there was no reason for him to be acting this way, and wearing the mask,, so that the apparent world would accept him. He knew that he needed to turn to the only one that could make things normal, make things right. He knew that he had to ask god, to forgive him for his wrongs. And ask for a new start. Now it`s often said; God doesn`t listen to a sinners prayer....but I believe He does. How else could a sinner repent. He listened to the cry of this young man. He forgave this young man, and gave him a new beginning. And despite any situations, experiences or lessons learned the hard way. God has always been with this young man. And still today God answers every prayer. I know this because, the man in this story is me. If I am alive today, it`s only because of prayer! When I awake in the morning with a back pain, I thank God, because I'm alive. God gave man Dominion over all the beast, and every living plant on this earth. Man should never be subject to surrendering to any substance that comes from plant life. I chose to leave the comforts of a christian home, where I was always safe with my siblings. I went out and gave in to the temptations, with out thinking of the consequences. But their were people praying. I rebelled, only to humble myself and ask for forgiveness. And God heard my prayers. This mask that I spoke of was not an actual mask. This mask was a mind set. A mind set one takes on when God, is not first in your life. When you put God on the throne of your life, every move you make is sanctioned by him. Christ said;' cast your burdens on Him, and He will give you rest'. And remember, no weapon formed against you will prosper. (Isaiah 54:11) We live in a complex world, we have to keep ourselves in balance. Our dependency should always be in God. If you want to be faithful in your marriage, be faithful to God. Do you need your employer to take notice of you? Say a prayer for him (or her). There should be nothing that should make you feel you have to achieve on your own. Anything and everything you involve yourself with, you should take it to the lord in prayer. Always remember; If His eye is on the sparrow, He also watches thee.

God bless you. Love always, Irving Serrano.