Reflections from August 24, 2010

Paul reminds us that God's glory is in us ready to be seen by others if we don't cover it with a veil by writing in 2 Corinthians 2:18, "But we all, with unveiled face, beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as by the Spirit of the Lord."

Paul had recalled to the church at Corinth the phenomenon that occurred during the period when Moses received the Law. As Israel wandered through the wilderness, God revealed Himself to the people through what looked like a consuming fire. But to Moses He spoke face to face. This encounter with the living God had such an effect on Moses that his face would shine with an afterglow whenever he returned to the people. To dispel their fear, he put a veil over his face to hide the glory that resulted from his proximity to God.

Paul argues that we have even closer proximity to God because He lives inside us. Thus, when we meet others, they ought to see the glory of God shining out of us. In other words, they ought to see Jesus. That is, unless we place a veil over the glory, a mask of selfish ambition and worldly concerns. Make sure that people see Jesus in you and see His love, integrity and power.

Blessings to all