“But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the Glory of the Lord, are changed into the same Image from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord.”
II Corinthians 3:18
At first it may seem slow and almost imperceptible to the human eye, but over time it’ll become quite noticeable to us, others and especially the Lord.
“Change.”
It would seem that’s our world’s watchword these days—some of which is intentional and intensive, while other is incidental and incremental. Likewise, some of it is “good,” while other leaves us shaking our head in disbelief.
But, the change described in today’s Manna is an inward one that expresses itself outwardly in some most visible and beautiful ways. That’s why it’s important for us to understand what the Holy Spirit’s saying through Paul’s words.
The first thing we notice are the words “with open face beholding.” The Greek word “anakalupto” is used here for this phrase and basically means “to unveil, be taken away, remove the covering, etc.” And, when we read it in its context in vv.6-18 with regard to the veil that covered Moses’ face after receiving the Ten Commandments from the Lord on Mt. Sinai (Ex. 34:29-35), we’re ushered into a new depth of meaning that takes our breath away.
What’s interesting is that Moses didn’t even realize his face was shining when he came down from the Mount (v.29). And, what, we may ask, caused his face to shine? Quite simply because he’d been with the Lord of Glory! Glory!! And, dear Pilgrim, when we’ve spent time with the Risen Lord we ought to also have a “Glory Glow” on our faces! Hallelujah!!
Yet, this dazzling appearance frightened the people so much that they begged him to put a veil over his face, which he did (vv.30-33). But, “when he went in before the Lord to speak with Him (alone), he took the veil off until he came out” (v.34a). . .which shows that there should be nothing in between. . .no hidden sins or pretense… when we get alone with God.
Tell Him your heartaches. Share with Him your burdens. Confess those wayward thoughts, ulterior motives, hidden fears, caustic words, etc., that have welled up within your soul.
Then “be still and know that He is God.”
And, allow Him to love on you as He “cleanses you from all unrighteousness” (I Jn. 1:7-9) and renews you in your inner man by His Grace and Mercy.
As we bask in Jesus’ Presence we should not be surprised when we’re overwhelmed by Him and His Glory, so wondrous and pure. We also should also not be surprised when we emerge from this “Righteous Rendezvous” with a special glow about us—even though ours will be emanating from within as our “hearts burn within us” (Lk. 24:32). And, even though for now our “glimpse of His Glory” will be like one looking into a mirror of burnished brass, our time alone with Him will still help us to be “changed (Grk. ‘metamorphoo’—‘transformed, transfigured, etc.’) from glory to glory by the Holy Spirit.” So, do not lose hope, Pilgrim. Spend time with your Savior today. And, soon you’ll be looking more like Him every day.
By Tom Smith Morning Manna Dated September 2, 2010
