London is an age-old city. Above ground it’s a glittering metropolis, a fascinating mix of the old and new, ranging from ancient Roman ruins to the latest in high-tech buildings constructed to the most modern design standards.
London has a hidden side, too. One of these is the London Silver Vaults. Deep under the busy surface of everyday London, the Chancery Lane Safe Deposit opened in 1876 as a series of strong rooms to house valuables of the most exquisite caliber. Now, step inside to this modern-day shopping mecca for retail silver, and our eyes are taken aback by the glittering array of pristinely polished silver.
More than one visitor has been known to gasp in awe upon walking through the doors. It’s the largest silver extravaganza in the world, and door after door opens to gleaming displays glittering behind the transparent doors of glass cases. Liberace, the world-renown pianist, purchased his iconic trademark silver candelabra here. The Downton Abbey television series outfitted their entire set from this collection. It’s an amazing place, even if one never spends a dime within its underworld confines.
Part of the Silver Vaults’ appeal is their unexpected location. They are hidden away, secret, and their gleaming dichotomy of brilliance is twice as appealing in their super-secure underground venue.
Are our most treasured sins the same? On our surface person, we display the latest in correct behavior, sing in the choir, and hold our lives to the highest standard. Yet, we have a hidden side tucked safely away from the eyes of the world.
Our hidden side shines with greater appeal simply because it’s hidden. The contrast between the darkness in which it’s buried and the thrill we get when we open it back up makes us giddy with desire. Hebrews 4:12 tells us God knows our hearts and will reveal all that we’ve hidden away.
“For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart.”
We must open the doors to our inner selves. What is hidden to man isn’t disguised before our almighty God. 1 John 1:9 gives us a better way.
“If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”
When we open ourselves to God, he will polish us to perfection, and we will gleam with the majesty of his honor and glory.
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