Shine Like The Stars

SHINE LIKE THE STARS

By:  Julie Souza Bradley Lilly

“Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the Lord has risen upon you.” - Isaiah 60:1 (ESV)

One of my favorite things to do every year at Christmastime is to hop in the car and drive through neighborhoods and enjoy the beautiful Christmas lights.  Like moths to a flame, we are all drawn toward the light, whether it is a brilliant sunset, or a blanket of stars on a chilly, winter night.  

God created us to be drawn to light and not the darkness, because God is light.  We are drawn to these lesser lights, because they are a subtle hint and reflection of the breathtaking wonder of one day seeing God face to face.  

 If we are drawn to little Christmas lights, no wonder the hearts of thousands gathered to be near Jesus and learn from Him. The light of His love and wisdom shone brighter than a thousand suns, and attracted people from far and wide.   They were changed by merely being in His presence.  Even Moses, after being in God’s presence, had to cover his face with a veil, because it shone with the glory of God (Ex 34:29,35).  

As it says in Matthew 5:16, “In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.” (ESV)  

If we spend time with Him, we will become like Him, and shine, reflecting His glory for all to see.  I want to glow with the glory of God.  How about you?

Father, in this season of darkness, draw us ever deeper into Your presence.  In that intimacy, may we catch a glimpse of Your glory and be transformed, so that we may become blameless and pure, "children of God without fault in a warped and crooked generation." (Philippians 2:15) 

Like Moses, may we carry Your glory, drawing those in darkness to Your beautiful light.  And like Mary, may we welcome Your Spirit to birth a miracle of life and hope within us.  

Lord, may we shine like the stars in the darkness, and take part in bringing the light of salvation to the world.  In Jesus’ Name ❤️

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