John tells us that Jesus, the Word, dwelt among us. The Greek word for dwelt means literally “tented” or “tabernacle,” referencing the Old Testament demonstration of his presence as he dwelt with his people in the Tabernacle (see Exodus 33:7-11) through a pillar of cloud by day and a pillar of fire by night. In those days, the people would stand at the door of their tents when Moses would go to meet with God. They were undoubtedly in awe of this display of God’s glory, though only a glimpse of it! On this occasion, Moses boldly requested of the Lord, Please, show me your glory. (Exodus 33:18) God responds to Moses by telling him that he will first have to hide Moses in the cleft of a rock, and then, I will make all my goodness pass before you and will proclaim before you my name The LORD. (Exodus 33:19)
When Moses returns to the people, his face shone with the reflected glory of God. The brilliance of it was such that the people of Israel could not even look at Moses’ face unless he wore a veil. (Exodus 34:33)
While Moses’ encounter with the Lord that day was remarkable, the promise of the believer today is far greater. For those who have trusted in Christ, Paul says …
But whenever someone turns to the Lord, the veil is taken away. For the Lord is the Spirit, and wherever the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. So all of us who have had that veil removed can see and reflect the glory of the Lord. And the Lord — who is the Spirit — makes us more and more like him as we are changed into his glorious image. (2 Corinthians 3:16-18, NLT)
Take some time today to sit with God and ponder how you have been given eyes to “see” his glory. What are some ways that you are reflecting his goodness as he continues to “make you more and more like him as you are changed into his glorious image?”
Nicole Jiles
Children’s Director