Monday, January 01, 2007

Reflection of His Glory

Grand Sweep Daily Reading: Genesis 1; Psalms 1, 2

Genesis 1:27 (NIV)
So God created man in His own image, in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them.

2 Corinthians 3:18 (NIV)
And we, who with unveiled faces all reflect the Lord’s glory, are being transformed into His likeness with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit.


Good morning and Happy New Year!

I enjoy seeing little children come to church during the holidays. Little boys dressed in colorful Christmas sweaters, dress shirts and big boy ties; little girls twirling in fancy party dresses with colorful ribbons dangling from their hair. They all look so cute, decked out in their holiday finery. If you’ve ever tried to dress a child and keep them clean and neat on a Sunday morning, then you may have an even greater appreciation of the time and effort parents invest in their child’s appearance. For many families, the ritual may begin as early as Saturday night, when children are coerced into the bathtub for a good scrubbing. A few select bath toys may help this process along. The washing and drying of hair can be a chore, especially for little girls. To get those cute little banana curls, Moms may have to resort to foam rollers and hair nets to attain the desired Sunday morning effect. Fingernails and toenails are gently trimmed while children squirm and try to break free from their parents’ grip. On Sunday morning, after breakfast and just prior to walking out the door, each child is arm-wrestled into their Sunday-go-to-meeting clothes. I can remember feeling like I needed another shower myself, after I finished dressing the children for church. Let’s face it – looking good is a lot of work. I think back on that crazy time and laugh out loud. I’m so glad my children are getting to share this priceless experience with their wee ones today. Oh, the joy of dressing up!

We learn the value of cleanliness from our parents and caregivers. They encourage us to put our best face forward every morning. Be sure to brush your teeth, wash behind your ears, and comb your hair. Some men find it easier to shave their heads than comb their hair. Jeff tells me I could save a lot of money on trims and color if I would just allow him to shave my head. He makes a good point, but I just don’t think I’d look nearly as good as he does bald. I remember a time when Jeff buzzed our grandson for a cool summer look, and it took months for that child’s hair to grow back. That one haircut saved his parents a lot of barber shop money!

In the beginning, the Master Artist formed a man and a woman from the dust of the earth, breathing into their nostrils the breath of life. He created male and female in His image; a mere reflection of His glory. I marvel at the amazing intricacy of His holy work. Our bodies are woven together in the womb of a woman, brought forth through the act of childbirth. As human beings, we share many similar characteristics; yet our unique physical features and individual personalities display the Lord’s creative genius. The reflection of His glory is seen in every single life. It is no wonder that when we gaze upon the face of a newborn baby, we see the reflection of God’s holy face.

He has created something beautiful in you and me. We are transformed daily by His love. Today is the first day of a brand new year. Take a good look inside. Can you see the reflection of God’s transforming glory in your life? God has done an amazing thing! He has set His image in your heart. Can you see it?

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding
www.songofdeborah.com

Pray for: Spirit eyes to see the glory of God in every human life. His creative touch is displayed for all to behold. Be aware of who you are in Him, and be transformed daily by His love for you. He is the Master Artist, and you are His priceless masterpiece.

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