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February 25, 2019

A Noticeable Difference

Travis Collins   |   Read Exodus 34:29-35

(Image: Pixabay)

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Moses’ face is glowing. Not the glow one gets after too much sun. Or when one is embarrassed or in love. But mysteriously radiant.

We shouldn’t be surprised. After all, Moses has been as close to God as a human can get on this earth. The conspicuous radiance of Moses’...

God, transform me such that people see you in me. Make your presence visible in my life so that others look beyond my frailties to see your powerful perfection. May the afterglow of our visit be obvious to those around me. Amen.

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Lectionary Week
February 25—March 3, 2019
Scripture Overview

God’s glory is always revealed, even if never completely. When Moses encounters God on the mountain, his face undergoes a physical transformation as a reflection of God’s greater glory. The psalmist reminds us of how great God is and how even Moses and Aaron bow before God’s throne. Paul refers to the story of Moses, but because of Christ, God’s glory is now more openly revealed. There is no need to wear a covering as Moses did, for Christ reflects openly the divine radiance. Luke recounts the Transfiguration, when the face of Jesus, like that of Moses, begins to shine. God’s voice reinforces the revelation of the Transfiguration, declaring Jesus to be God’s Son and the revelation of God’s glory.

Questions and Suggestions for Reflection

Read Exodus 34:29-35. Consider the ways you provide evidence of your faith. Do you display it for your glory or for God’s?
Read Psalm 99. How do you seek a healthy balance of awe and intimacy in your relationship with God?
Read 2 Corinthians 3:12–4:2. What “veil” separates you from God—a sense of unworthiness, a hardened heart, a lack of understanding?
Read Luke 9:28-43a. Jesus shines with God’s glory, but then he gets back to his work of healing. Consider how God might transform you to do better the work you are already doing for God.

Respond by posting a prayer.

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