Day Twenty-Eight

But when one turns to the Lord, the veil is removed. Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another. For this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit. - 2 Corinthians 3:16-18

God's glory. The unmistakable weight of His fullness.  Bound up in His Presence, demonstrated through his creation, told of in Scripture as a pillar of fire leads Israel, as seas part and dry up, as dead are raised, as armies fall, and as the Son of Suffering submits to obedience and is raised in victory.  Demonstrated through mighty acts but always linked to the full display of His character.  Full of love, full of compassion, slow to anger, vengeful against evil.  Merciful. Gracious. Kind. Long-suffering. Faithful.  

It is the Glory of God that goes before the armies of Israel, that emanates from the angels as they sing at the birth of Christ, that causes Israel to tremble in fear as the law is given, and causes Moses to veil his face because the people dare not endure the brilliance after his encounter with God.  

In Christ, we who were once blinded by that same veil can now see through its torn fragments.  We are invited to boldly approach His glory and receive grace and strength, and the fire that once would've consumed now refines us. We are shaped into his character, from one degree of glory to another.  The power that split seas and raised the dead now calls us to not remain stagnant but to take part in bearing His image, putting on His character and desiring His glory above our own.  

As we pursue His glory in our own lives and in the life of our church, let us acknowledge that such a call demands action.  We are transformed from one degree of glory to another because each of our stories and giftings has a part to play.  We are called to take on his image because what He's doing right now in each of us matters to the rest of us.  

Look back at these 28 days of NEXT devotionals. How have you seen God’s glory and power? How has that moved you to love Him and your neighbor better?  What is your part to play in our Next Initiative? Are you ready to bring your first and best offering tomorrow on Giving Sunday?

Jesus, we love you.  Thank you for calling us to transformation, to life, and to take part in the work of your kingdom.  Lead us further this Sunday as we pursue your glory.  Amen.

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