Many years ago there was a TV program called, The Lone Ranger, that I watch when I was a child. I know that dates me, but many others have enjoy seeing it as well in reruns. Today, there are other superheros capturing of the hearts and minds of children and adults. Yet, the Lone Ranger was the first masked TV hero. The ranger's life had once been saved by an Indian, and now he felt an obligations to help others in return. Yet, he always wanted to remain anonymous even after risking his life to help someone else. Near the end of each program, the recipient would say, "Who was that masked man?"—as he rode away on his white horse. Then someone would say, "I don't know." And another person would reply, "That was the Lone Ranger."
In the movie, Superman, we have a similar situation. One night after saving Lois Lane's life, Superman gives her a breathtaking trip over the city and beyond—via his superpower. When they touch ground again, she asked Superman this question, "Who are you?" He replied, with a smile and said, "I'm a friend," and then he flies away. Nearly every superhero has sought to keep their true identity a secret for as long as possible, including Jesus.
In the movie, Superman, we have a similar situation. One night after saving Lois Lane's life, Superman gives her a breathtaking trip over the city and beyond—via his superpower. When they touch ground again, she asked Superman this question, "Who are you?" He replied, with a smile and said, "I'm a friend," and then he flies away. Nearly every superhero has sought to keep their true identity a secret for as long as possible, including Jesus.
In the New Testament, we read about many wonderful and incredible miracles of Jesus. On one occasion after feeding a multitude of people with just a few loaves of bread and some fishes, Jesus asked his disciples this question, "Who do the people says I am?" They answered Him by saying, that some people thought He was John the Baptist, or Elijah; but others thought He was a prophet raised from the dead. And Jesus said to them, "But, who do you say that I am." Peter quickly replied, "You are the Christ, the Son of the living God." Then Jesus told His disciples, that this revelation came from His Father in heaven. However, He strictly warned them that they were not to tell anyone, that He was the Christ, until after His death.
This account and question is recorded in the first three Gospels. Yet, what's interesting to note is that in Luke's account, Jesus presented this question to his disciple after spending some time alone in prayer (Luke 9:18). It's obvious, the significance of this question, for it is one we all have to answer and give an accounting for in the way we live and think. But, it also showed Jesus true humility. We should also take time in prayer, to consider how we want people to perceive us.
Jesus also told His disciples on another occasion, that they would do greater works than Him, if they believed. Near the end of Jesus ministry, the disciples were disputing among themselves again, which one of them would be the greatest. Jesus told them and showed them by example, that only when they humbled themselves and became as child or a servant to others, would they be recognized and be blessed by God. (Luke 22:24; John 13:14-17)
Today, there are many people wearing masks and disciple disguises that make themselves look different from who they really are. Yet the scripture, tells us that true disciples of Jesus would be known by their love (John 13:35). We are not to do anythings with selfish motives or seek the attention of others. Jesus warned the pharisees of this and their hypocrisy (Mt. 23:13-36). These are things that we should also avoid doing.
As God pours out His Spirit upon all flesh in these last days, it is important for us to remember who we are. We are to be the Light that shines out to all men, so that they may see our good works and give glory to God. (Mt. 5:16) Only those who wear the mask of humility are the true disciples of Jesus and have His authority. So the next time you look in the mirror—ask yourself, "Who am I... someone who seeks attention or someone who serves?"
