What a Hippo Hides
A good man out of the good treasure of his heart brings forth good things, and an evil man out of the evil treasure brings forth evil things. Matthew 12:35 (NKJV)
Hippos cannot swim! Their body mass does not allow them that privilege so they just sort of wander down in the depths. When they come up for air, it can be a bit unnerving. Google says: Hippos are fascinating semi-aquatic mammals known for spending 16 hours a day in water to protect their sensitive skin. They are massive herbivores that can run up to 20 mph, secrete their own "sunscreen," and hold their breath for 5 minutes. But David Winters (All God’s Creatures) wants us to know more.
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Hippopotamuses are fascinating. Like nature’s jack-in-the box, their relatively small head and eyes rise from the water, revealing a mammoth body. Traveling through life, I’ve learned people can be a lot like hippos. What we see on the surface may or may not accurately reflect the enormity of their life experiences, character traits, and wisdom.
When we first meet, most people show us their best side: smiles, gracious words, and sometimes even warm gestures. Just like the small head and eyes of the hippo, this picture doesn’t begin to reveal the whole person who lies beneath the waterline of their polite façade.
Many folks earn our respect with years of kind acts, honest dealings, and wise counsel. Over time, I’ve discovered the truth about Matthew 12:35, that whatever is in the heart eventually comes out. A hippopotamus-size storehouse of good things can delight us and add so much good to our lives.
Still, people—even those who profess to be Christians—don’t always treat us kindly or do the right thing. When we face betrayal, dishonesty, or just insensitivity, it can feel like the hippo revealing what’s beneath the surface. This leaves us with the question: How will I respond?
Jesus left us valuable instructions about understanding others and responding with love. He made us aware that not everyone will share our moral code or treat us with civility. Whether people do or do not have a relationship with Christ, our job is to speak honestly, love unconditionally, and respond graciously in every circumstance. Don’t be surprised by what lurks beneath the surface, but celebrate those people who demonstrate goodness and mercy to us.
May God make us a light to all, including those who need God’s cleansing power. Just planting a seed for a relationship with Jesus will bring forth a bumper crop in the future.
Lord, may my actions always reflect Your saving grace to everyone I meet. AMEN.