A mirror can be a sign of vanity and pride. Some people look in the mirror and think, like delusional Narcissus, that the most astonishing example of physical beauty is staring back at them. Others, on the other hand, tend to obsess over every physical flaw on the body, even the tiniest blemish unnoticeable to anyone else. They judge themselves harshly against the culture’s unrealistic standard of physical perfection and find themselves inadequate.
When you look into the mirror, do not just see your appearance. Look beyond it. See your whole self, a unique human being, body and soul, made according to the image and likeness of God with potential to be like Him through Grace. This is the Way to fulfil your personal purpose and potential.
Humbly and honestly recognise your inner sinfulness, the ugliness remaining in Your soul. Do not despair over the distortions within you. You are more than your sickness and internal blemishes. God loves you and your fellow believers know your value. Since you are imperfect, seek wholeness and the fullness of Beauty through the One who is Perfect and shares His Perfection with us. He invites us to participate in the radiant beauty of His Glory. Renew your commitment to repentance and healing so that you may become better than you are now through the transforming experience of Grace.
The Holy Icons of the Theotokos and the Saints show you what that human perfection and beauty of the soul that is attainable through Christ looks like. Since you are the individual in the mirror, not a person in an icon (yet), you need to move from where you realistically stand right now toward your goal. Practice the virtues and heal the passions through prayer, the ascetic therapy, and reception of the Holy Mysteries. Keep in mind that God loves you for who you are, but He calls you to become greater than you are by His Power.
Read: 1 Samuel 16.1-13; Proverbs 27.19; Matthew 5.8; James 1.22-25; 2 Peter 1.3-9; 1 John 3.1-6
Text copyright © 2018 by Fr. Symeon D. S. Kees