Have you ever experienced a spiritual awakening while getting a haircut? This is somewhat of a regular occurrence for me. There’s just something special about releasing those lengthy-locks and watching them drop to the floor. But that’s neither hair nor there. (Sorry, couldn’t resist.)
The physical removal of one’s hair is a reminder of how we need to eliminate the extra baggage that we carry in life. I’m talking about those things that should not remain a part of us like hate, anger, envy, jealousy, pride, and so on. A spiritual catharsis takes place when we cut these burdens out of lives and refocus on the positives like kindness, gentleness, peace, and love.
As I sit in the barber’s chair, my eyes scan the room and I spy something amazing – something that I would normally not notice – different colors of hair. I’m looking at people with all different styles, shades, and colors such as blonde, brown, black, and red. What a sight! God made each of us unique. Each one of us has our own unique personalities, gifts, and talents. Each of our colors make up the rainbow of humanity, as we are made in the image of our Creator. We are truly special in the eyes of God, and no one else is exactly like us. This reminds me of the lyrics from the musical, Hair:
I want it long, straight, curly, fuzzy
Snaggy, shaggy, ratty, matty
Oily, greasy, fleecy, shining
Gleaming, streaming, flaxen, waxen
Knotted, polka-dotted
Twisted, beaded, braided
Powdered, flowered, and confettied
Bangled, tangled, spangled, and spaghettied!
Hair, hair, hair, hair, hair, hair, hair, oh,
Flow it, show it
Long as God can grow it
My hair.
Despite the fact that my hair seems to be decreasing as I get older (although I’m thankful for what I still have), I realized how much I need my time at the salon so that I can sit still and just be. And there lies the spiritual awakening for all of us and an important part of our lives that we often skip over. We need to take the time to just ‘be’ with the Lord – whether you’re sitting in an easy chair or a barber’s chair. Take time to be with Jesus each day. Start small, just five minutes, and work you way up from there. Once you begin to do this, you will notice a change in your behavior as you go through your day.
Next time you get your hair cut, styled, colored, or whatever, keep your eyes and ears open for those spiritual moments that you may encounter. God is everywhere and wants to be a part of your life. May you always experience the presence of Christ in the most unlikely of places.
Are not five sparrows sold for two small coins? Yet not one of them has escaped the notice of God. Even the hairs of your head have all been counted. Do not be afraid. You are worth more than many sparrows. ~Luke 12:6-7
