Vivian Maier was a nanny who led a seemingly ordinary life in the suburbs of Chicago. However, unknown to nearly everyone around her, Maier was also an extraordinarily talented street photographer. She took over 150,000 photographs, capturing captivating moments of city life with an artistic eye. Yet, she never shared her work with anyone; she kept her negatives hidden in storage lockers. It was only after her death that her incredible body of work was discovered and recognized for its genius. Her life and work have since become the subject of books and documentary films, including the Oscar nominated film Finding Vivian Maier. Maier’s fear of criticism and rejection kept her from sharing her remarkable gift with the world.

Fear is an intrinsic part of the human experience, deeply rooted in our survival instinct. Fear has been essential for keeping our ancestors safe from predators and other threats. It triggers the “fight or flight” response, sharpening our senses, increasing our heart rate, and preparing our bodies to react swiftly in the face of danger. Fear is equally useful in modern life, alerting us to potential dangers and encouraging caution in risky situations. 

However, fear can also have a darker side, functioning in our lives in very negative ways. One such manifestation is imposter syndrome, which forces us into a life of constant fear that if others truly knew us, we would not be loved or considered worthy. This syndrome makes us doubt our abilities and accomplishments, leading to feelings of inadequacy and self-doubt. We become trapped in a cycle of fear and insecurity, afraid to step into the light and reveal our true selves.

This brings us to our reading for this Sunday from John 3. In John 3:20, Jesus identifies fear as the force holding us back from the light: “Everyone who does evil hates the light, and will not come into the light for fear that their deeds will be exposed.” While the verse specifically mentions those who do evil, it also speaks to the broader human condition—our fear of being exposed and judged. This fear prevents us from fully embracing the life we were created to experience and live. Jesus calls us to step out of the shadows and into the light, to overcome our fears and live authentically.

Reflecting on John 3:20 in the context of imposter syndrome, we can see how fear of exposure and judgment can hinder our spiritual and personal growth. It keeps us from accepting our true identity in Christ and from fully embracing our faith. By recognizing and addressing this fear, we can begin to break free from its chains and step into the abundant life that God has planned for us. In doing so, we move closer to living as the people we were meant to be, fully experiencing and sharing the love and grace of God.

Let us be encouraged and remember that we are created in the shining image of God’s holiness, full of light and love. Do not let any form or shape of chains—fear, shame, or doubt—hold you back from seeking His love, His light, or slow your walk into His presence. We have no reason to doubt our worthiness of salvation and love because we know that He loves us. He says so on every page and in every story of the Bible, and He proved it on the Cross when He gave His life to save ours. Let us step into the light, embrace our true self in Christ, and live the abundant, fearless life we were created to live.