We all have scars, something I pointed out already this week! You might even try to cover them up with a “mask.” For Auggie, his mask is an astronaut helmet that he has to let go of when he goes to school. Masks help cover up/hide insecurities. Sometimes you have to be transparent and let people see the real you. But as Auggie finds out, being transparent comes with risk. Auggie opens up to a boy named Jack, who becomes his good friend. But after developing a strong friendship, Auggie overhears Jack telling other kids that he was originally assigned to be Auggie’s welcoming buddy and that he just follows him around now!
This absolutely crushes Auggie, and he wants to shut himself off from others. When someone disappoints you, you can either step back and put the mask back on, or leave it off and be open to making new friends. He resists Summer’s attempts to befriend him at first, but then realizes she is genuinely wanting to be his friend. He’s even able to restore his relationship with Jack when an apology is made.
Some people falsely believe that God will only love them when they’re perfect. God will accept you NOW! You can’t clean up your act on your own. You need God and help from a church family. You need them to go through this life with you! You don’t have to walk it alone. No matter what your past or present looks like, you have a purpose and calling. Auggie receives an award at school for his excellent character. His experience in going in front of the entire school helps him see that he can be accepted the way he is.
I want you to look at Galatians 6:2 (NIV). Think about how this can apply to your life on a whole new level when you get plugged in at church: “Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” While no one is perfect, and people will sometimes let you down, friendships are so important. You need people to relate to and to help you through life. In the movie, Auggie learns that while friendships can sometimes be painful and complicated, life is so much more fulfilling with them!