The Danger of a Perfect Image

"Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you clean the outside of the cup and the plate, but inside they are full of greed and self-indulgence." - Matthew 23:25  
  
In the 1981 film “Mommie Dearest”, there's an unforgettable scene that has become one of the most iconic moments in American cinematic history. It's the "No Wire Hangers" moment, where Joan Crawford, played by Faye Dunaway, erupts in a fit of rage over something as seemingly insignificant as a wire hanger. This scene is more than just a dramatic moment on screen; it’s a powerful depiction of the dangers of living for an image rather than for what’s truly important.

Joan Crawford was one of Hollywood's most beloved actresses of the 1920s and '40s. She was the picture of American virtue, with a perfect look, a successful career, and a life that seemed to have it all—fancy estates, beautiful clothes, and financial success. But behind the scenes, her life was anything but perfect. Despite her public image, Joan was known for her abusive behavior towards her adopted children, Christina and Christopher. This stark contrast between her public persona and her private life is what makes the "No Wire Hangers" scene so impactful.
 
Joan’s obsession with maintaining a flawless image led to intense pressure on her children. Everything had to be perfect, or there would be severe consequences. For her, it wasn’t about being a good mother; it was about looking like a good mother. And when that image was threatened by something as small as a wire hanger, the facade crumbled, revealing the ugly truth beneath.

This scene is a sobering reminder of the dangers of prioritizing outward appearances over inner character. Jesus warned the Pharisees about this very thing, calling them out for cleaning the outside of the cup while the inside was full of greed and self-indulgence. Like Joan Crawford, the Pharisees were more concerned with how they looked to others than with the condition of their hearts.
 
As you reflect on this story, consider your own life. Are there areas where you’ve been more focused on how things look rather than on what really matters? It’s easy to get caught up in appearances, but God cares about what’s inside. He desires authenticity, not perfection. So today, let go of the need to maintain a perfect image and focus instead on cultivating a heart that is pure, humble, and honest before God.