Dear Friends,
I was 12 years old when I first heard a song by the Platters entitled, “The Great Pretender!” It was so popular that it made it to number 1 on “American Bandstand.”
Oh yes, (oh yes) I’m the great (the great) pretender
Yes, pretending that I’m doing well
Yes, my need (my need) is such (is such) I pretend (I pretend) too much (too much)
I’m lonely but no one can tell (no one can tell)
Oh yes, (oh yes) I’m the great (the great) pretender (yes)
Adrift in a world of my own (yes)
Do you know when pretending started? I am quite sure you guessed Genesis 3! Satan was the first but not the last – pretending has never been out of date!
Remember Jacob? He was a notorious “pretender.” He deceives his blind father, Isaac, into giving him the blessing meant for his older brother Esau. Under the influence of his mother, Rebekah, Jacob disguises himself in Esau’s clothes and covers his arms with goat skins to mimic the hairy texture of Esau’s skin. This deception, rooted in selfish ambition and a desire to secure the family blessing, causes a rift that reverberates throughout Jacob’s life. The deadly consequence of his actions was immediate and profound: Jacob fled for his life, leaving behind his family and home, never to see his mother again. Rebekah’s involvement in the scheme also led to her own heartache, as she lost the son she favored and lived with the regret of her manipulations. The deceit created a cycle of mistrust and broken relationships, and Jacob would spend years living in exile, facing consequences for his actions that would shape his character and destiny. Jacob’s actions serve as powerful reminders that pretending and deceit bring far-reaching consequences, often leading to separation, regret, and pain.
When was the last time you pretended? I did not say if but when! We all know the game and have played the game. Fake, disguise, masquerade, pose, fabricate, and deceive are all synonyms.
I want to encourage you to read and meditate on Luke 16:9-15. Believe me when I say that the consequences of pretending are deadly!
Because there is no fooling God,
Glen
P.S. Invite a “pretender” this Sunday!