Before and After | Previous Challenge Entry

how it works

TITLE: Before and After | Previous Challenge Entry
By David Njau
05/19/09
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Before and After.

In the world of looks, we are variously bombarded with images of “before and after.” These are always amusing images since they must be stressed to the limit in order that the point may be driven home. If it is about weight, it is common for the bulge of the stomach to be the central focus in the image. Do we get the point?

I have always wondered whether the people in the images ever go back to their previous forms – in a sense, do they try to remember their condition in the “before”? Do they travel back in time to feel and experience the ugly bulge, the tiring activities and the perspirations that come with it? Do they moan about their “before” and rejoice about their “after?”

I would assume that in the joy of their newfound beauty, all of the “before” becomes forgotten. It is not in focus and therefore out of mind. Like the pregnant mother who gives birth and is so overwhelmed by the joy of the newborn that she forgets the labor pains and what it felt like. The joy is too immense.

In Christianity, one wonders why and how the redeemed have problems with their past. Yes, the Devil is quite good at reminding us of where we came from, but how is it that the “before” image seems so difficult to erase? How is it that we only find ourselves celebrating and enjoying the image of “after” only momentarily? Do we have to be in a gathering of many after images to be reminded who we are?

Maybe then, it might be more impactful to develop our own “before and after” images, properly presented in color and intensity so that we can constantly have the picture in our sights:

Am thinking about a “before” of the sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like (Galatians 5:19-21- NIV). Indeed, a gory picture that may not quite be presentable as an image; one that am sure no one would want to hang in their bedroom.

I also think about an “after” of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control (Galatians 5:22,23 – NIV). An image of bliss, tranquility and peace; the kind of picture that anyone can imagine and easily make a presentation of.

Since coming up with an of the “before” would obviously be difficult and nightmarish, and since the holy book clearly tells us this is an image to be erased and remembered no more, why then don’t we simply do away with it? The next time the Devil comes along to remind us we can simply say “sorry we cannot remember.”

In this way, we would remain with the image of the “after,” which we can indulge in every moment of our lives. Would we then not thoroughly cherish this moment to the point that we constantly and completely remain in it? Would we not then, have arrived at the point to being in the presence of God at all times?

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