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In the vast expanse of the ocean, icebergs float majestically, their true enormity hidden beneath the surface. Humans, like icebergs, have a depth and complexity that remains submerged below the surface, hidden both from themselves and others. Find out why it is important to know what lies hidden below the surface of our lives. Please read more.
When the Titanic hit the iceberg on April 14, 1912, at 11:40 PM only 50 to 100 feet of the iceberg was visible. The iceberg was significantly larger below the surface, making it much more dangerous than it appeared to the Titanic’s crew. It has been speculated that 90% of the iceberg was submerged below the surface. Isn’t it fascinating how something so massive can be mostly hidden from view?
In modern times, it is extremely rare for ships to hit icebergs. Thanks to advanced technology, navigation systems, and iceberg monitoring, ships can detect and avoid icebergs with great accuracy. However, even with all of this technology, on average 2 ships still hit icebergs every year.
We also need to know what lies below the surface. So much of who we are is hidden from view. If we don’t work hard to determine our true self, then like the Titanic, we may sink into the abyss.
Our life is a journey, a cruise if you will, of self-discovery. Self-knowledge is essential. It requires honesty and a willingness to explore the depths of our being. Self-examination is facilitated by prayer, and a regular examinations of conscience. True self-knowledge is a gift of God’s grace.
Because we are created in the image and likeness of God, there is a profound relationship between self-knowledge and knowledge of the divine. Understanding ourselves is intrinsically linked to understanding God and vice versa.
The visible part of the iceberg is what we present to others: our actions, words, and outward appearance. This is the part of us that is shaped by societal expectations, cultural norms, and personal experiences. We are called to look beyond the surface. In 1 Samuel 16:7, the Lord reminds Samuel, “God does not see as a mortal, who sees the appearance. The LORD looks into the heart.”
Ultimately, the iceberg metaphor serves as a reminder of the complexities of our human existence. The visible tip represents the aspects of life that are easily understood, while the submerged portion symbolizes the deeper truths that require exploration and reflection.
Beneath the surface lies the bulk of the iceberg, representing the hidden aspects of our lives. These include our fears, insecurities, dreams, and spiritual struggles. Often, we are not fully aware of these depths ourselves. The process of self-discovery is a lifelong journey, one that requires introspection, prayer, and a willingness to confront uncomfortable truths.
Broken Door Ministries is founded on the belief that we are all wounded and broken and we keep many things hidden below the surface. We must confront these things even if it is painful to do.
God helped me to grow in understanding and He helped me to come to grips with the parts of my personal iceberg hidden below the surface. Doing so, transformed my life. Openly sharing these things with others changed my life for the better. I feel certain the same can be true for you.
In the pursuit of self-knowledge, we may confront various challenges, including the realities of pain, suffering, and yes, even the existence of evil within us. This is sometimes referred to as our “dark side” and we all have a dark side. We are a mystery to ourselves, we seek happiness, while grappling with the struggles of life. This struggle is part of our human condition, and it is through these experiences that we gain insight into our true selves.
Knowing that we are like icebergs can also transform our relationships. It reminds us that everyone we encounter has hidden depths, and it calls us to approach others with grace and compassion. In Matthew 7:1-2, Jesus teaches, “Stop judging, that you may not be judged. For as you judge, so will you be judged, and the measure with which you measure will be measured out to you.”
This teaching encourages us to withhold judgment of those around us and it invites us to be more vulnerable, sharing more of our hidden selves with trusted friends and family. In doing so, we create deeper, more authentic relationships.
Our faith helps us to navigate the hidden depths of our lives. It provides a foundation of trust in God’s love and guidance. We must always remember that we are not alone on this journey; God is with us, guiding and supporting us every step of the way. And, our trusted Christian friends are there to listen and journey with us. They may be able to spot a dangerous iceberg in our life before we do, thereby helping us to avoid the fate of the Titanic.
Each one of us is a unique creation of God, wonderfully made in His image. If we find ourselves grappling with the enigma of our own existence, we can find comfort in Psalm 139:14, “I praise you, because I am wonderfully made; wonderful are your works! My very self you know.”
It is true that we are a mystery in a physical, spiritual, and emotional way. We are complex beings with thoughts, desires, and emotions that often elude our understanding. Saint Augustine, once said, “Man is a great deep, O Lord. The hairs of his head are easier by far to count than his feelings and the movements of his heart.”
The iceberg metaphor reminds us that there is always more to a person than meets the eye. We must always look beyond the surface, seeking a deeper understanding. Doing so helps us to grow in our relationships with God, ourselves, and others, uncovering the hidden depths that make each of us uniquely valuable.
Finally, Saint Paul reminds us, “Now we see only a reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known” (1 Corinthians 13:12).
Heavenly Father, I come to you today with the words of Psalm 139:23-24. “Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.” Amen!
AMDG
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Please take a moment to share your thoughts about today’s message below.
Please continue to pray for the people who have been devastated by Hurricane Helene and Hurricane Milton. So many lives were shattered!
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What a profound analogy, Brian. Indeed the iceberg…what we reveal and what we keep hidden.
And the perfect musical piece to accompany your message. Excellent.
Jane
I am glad you found the analogy helpful. Thanks for your post.
Brian
Brian, I love the iceberg imagery. It is often difficult to come to grips with those things about ourselves that we try to hide and so hard to treat others with compassion rather than judgment. Thanks for reminding me of those important ideas. Looking forward to seeing you at Good Shepherd in December
Jim
I am looking forward to being up in Pennsylvania on Saturday December 7th to put on a retreat again. Thanks for your post.
Brian
Wise counsel. Thank you, Brian.
Dan
Thanks for posting!
Brian
As usual, this was awesome. I can relate to finding my better life through John and my returning to the church. I can recall going to Mass the first time with him and literally crying through the entire time. They were tears of joy after being away for several years.
Blessings my friend for all you do for others.
Pat
Thank you for sharing your personal story with us. May God’s blessings be with you.
Brian