Beholding Christ

But we all, with unveiled face, beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as by the Spirit of the Lord. —2 Corinthians 3:18

It is crucial for us to spend time in God’s Word so we can connect with the person of Christ. 

Reading about the impact of Jesus’ unconditional love for us compels us to love without demand. 

His mercy and His free distribution of grace to the most undeserving make us ashamed of our tendency to withhold forgiveness and seek revenge.

We find ourselves becoming a more thankful person when we realize that, despite our shameful fallenness, the Lord has clothed us in the beauty of His perfect righteousness. 

His amazing ways and unsurpassed wisdom motivate and transform us. 

It is hard to be content with our lives as it is when in His presence We are drawn to become more like Him.

The apostle Paul calls us to the joy of beholding Christ. 

As we do so, we are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory.

Stay close to God and we will never be the same again.

A Willing Heart

Then everyone came whose heart was stirred, and everyone whose spirit was willing, and they brought the LORD’s offering for the work of the tabernacle of meeting, for all its service, and for the holy garments.

—Exodus 35:21

Here we see a spirit of generosity in the Israelites when they gave to build the tabernacle of the Lord. 

When asked to provide materials for the sanctuary, everyone whose spirit was willing brought the Lord’s offering for the work of the tabernacle. 

The Israelites eagerly donated their gold jewelry, colored thread, fine linen, silver, bronze, gemstones, and spices. Some also gave their time and talents.

If we follow the Israelites’ example and willingly donate our resources, we please and honor God with our attitude and offerings. 

The Lord, who sees and knows our thoughts and hearts, loves cheerful givers. 

He Himself is the best example of generosity (John 3:16). 

The Lord Jesus Christ gave everything He had for our sake. 

Let us give with a willing heart so that our gifts will truly honor Him.

I Am Coming Quickly

He who testifies to these things says, “Surely I am coming quickly.” 

Amen. Even so, come, Lord Jesus! 

—Revelation 22:20

A “COMING SOON!” announcement often precedes an exciting event.

The goal is to create anticipation and excitement for what is going to happen.

The “COMING SOON” sense of immediacy permeates the entire book of Revelation.

Three times in the final chapter, the Lord says, “I am coming quickly” (Rev. 22:7,12,20). 

How can this be?

2,000 years have elapsed since these words were written.

“Quickly” doesn’t seem appropriate for our experience of time.

Rather than focusing on a date for His return, the Lord is urging us to set our hearts on His promise that will be fulfilled. 

We are called to live for Him in this present age “looking for the blessed hope and glorious appearing of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ” (Titus 2:13). 

Let us live as if the Lord Jesus Christ is coming back today.