Masquerades are an enigma in most African cultures. They exercise the highest level of liberty in communities where they are celebrated and unmasking one is an abomination, a taboo; because it’s believed that inside the mask or costume is an it, a deity of sorts, a spirit.
But when God unmasks a Masquerade (a man), by exposing his secret sin publicly, it is radical chastening in its purest form. It is God’s way of salvaging a man that slowly strayed into the scary world of the “untouchables”.
Masquerades are good examples of hypocrites; people who present a false image of themselves. I refer you to this very interesting piece authored by Charles Finn – the Mask, blogged by Seth Barnes.
Have you ever heard someone say, “I’m praying for you…” yet they’ve never said a word of prayer on account of your welfare? The projected image of spirituality may be used as a disguise just to win trust, commendations, respect…
It is hypocrisy when we show partiality in our dealings with people based on assumed or apparent needs or affluence we see or sense in them. James 2:2-4
It’s hypocrisy to say “Yes” when we mean “No” or vice versa. We are hypocritical when we are selective of which God’s laws to obey, to preach and teach; while deliberately leaving out those that tend to challenge false perspectives we hold. Luke 6:46
In essence, hypocrisy promotes substandard forms of Christianity and Jesus says, “They worship me in vain…” Mark 7:7-8
Being fake and unreal is easily a lifestyle. But it’s very difficult and expensive to manage. The man in the Masquerade suffers greatly, sweating endlessly and/or carrying a heavy load all in disguise. And those following them make sure their human parts are not exposed in the cause of rigorous gyrations. No matter how good each day’s performance is; the night comes, when the masked creature must unmask and once again, be human.
When Lazarus was raised from the dead, Jesus commanded people around him (I suppose his close friends and family) to lose him from his grave clothes. The men that did the job would have seen Lazarus’ nakedness, but it wouldn’t have mattered that day.
How do you tell a masquerade, “Your costume is so badly torn, you are exposed”, without falling victim of its wrath? Or should we ignore the tear and watch the miserable creature ridicule itself and the tradition of our fathers? Prov 27:5
It can be difficult dealing with a hypocrite because he’ll always be the first to shout an “Amen!” to a warning meant for his correction; the first to say, “That was a great message…” and never repent.
There must be a willingness to repent followed immediately by obedience in turning away, unmasking and being you. There’s no crime in being a mess. But don’t remain a mess when you know there’s a better offer.
May you be graced with people who will aptly and willingly help you unmask before the inevitable night season, when cruel circumstances of life rip your disguise in public.
May people who’ll help with untying your grave clothes when you are raised again, be disciples who understand and value the privilege of handling your “nakedness”.
“For what is the hope of the hypocrite, though he hath gained, when God taketh away his soul? Job 27:8
Kingdom Exploits With Uche 
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