The Death of Self Reflection
Passages to Ponder, Part 5
We live in a world that thrives on blame — social media, politics, even our own friendships. But deep down, most of us know the uncomfortable truth:
The biggest battle is not “out there.”
It’s in here.
Everything I see on social media is a molotov cocktail being thrown at someone for something — anything. Not many posts deal with self.
This poem is a personal reflection on that battle — the tension between my redeemed identity in Christ and the necessity of self reflection — and the sinful desire to take the speck out of someone else’s eye and leave the plank firmly planted in my own eye.
I think I’ve written one other poem since 10th grade.
Maybe this resonates with you too.
I was born in sin, and in a sin-filled land.
Don’t tell me — I experience it firsthand.
I want to blame another; I want to pass the buck.
My sin nature always tries to jive and shuck.
I’m redeemed by the blood, according to my King.
My eternity is sealed — on that promise I cling.
But I’m a flawed human being, a heart far from tame;
It’s why I always look for someone to blame.
The problem is me, and I don’t want to face it.
The test is too hard; give me yours, and I’ll ace it.
It’s easier to point a finger at another man’s sin
Than to get real with myself and be cleansed from within.
Everything about me is someone else’s fault —
That doesn’t look like light, and it sure isn’t salt.
The problem is me, and I don’t want to face it.
The test is too hard; give me yours, and I’ll ace it.
But why look in the mirror when I can look at you?
It’s a whole lot more comfortable — a much better view.
As long as I keep my focus on what’s out there,
It’s one more moment I don’t have to be self-aware.
Just call me “victim” in every situation —
It sure will save me from a life of obligation:
To be a representative of my King and Savior,
To put the focus on me and my own poor behavior.
The problem is me, and I don’t want to face it.
The test is too hard; give me yours, and I’ll ace it.
Closing Reflection
Conviction isn’t comfortable. But it is a gift.
Blame keeps us stuck. Honesty sets us free.
This poem doesn’t end with a triumphant solution — because sometimes, the first victory is just being willing to look in the mirror.
As Paul writes in Romans 7:24–25:
“What a wretched man I am! Who will rescue me from this body that is subject to death? Thanks be to God, who delivers me through Jesus Christ our Lord!”
Have you been avoiding the mirror lately?
What would change if we stopped blaming — and started surrendering?
Below are links to my other Passages to Ponder posts:
The Fullness of Grace and Truth
Why Do Christians Talk That Way?