Radiant. When I hear or see the word an image of a small portly pig sitting humbly yet confidently under a web, pops into my head. The word "radiant" shimmers in the threads of the web, woven there by a the pig's spider friend. I am talking about the story of Charlotte’s Web, of course, a classic tale written by E.B. White about friendship, loyalty and love.
Charlotte, the gentle and kind spider, believes in Wilbur, the pig. Her belief in Him gives him strength, hope, a purpose and because of her, he also radiates joy.
I don’t know about you, but some days I would not describe myself as radiant. Dull? Weary? Worn down? Doubting? Fearing? Yes. Radiant? From the inside looking out, I’m not so sure. But …
God tells us in Psalm 34:5, “Those who look to Him are radiant; their faces are never covered with shame.” When we seek Him, abide with Him, look to Him, we reflect His radiance. We can’t help it. His radiance shimmers off of us, regardless of what we think or how we feel.
I’ve known some pretty – like, really beautiful -- radically, radiant people. They are not radiant because of what they accomplish, how popular or witty or smart they are, or because of what they do for themselves. No, they are radiant because they live a life that is dependent on loving the Lord and seeking Him first in all things. I bet if I asked them, they would most humbly say that they do not notice their radiance. But, the truth is they are beautiful and they reflect the glory of God in their strength and in their joy – both of which He gives them.
Dear reader, look to the One – at the One -- Who loves you more than you can ever imagine. Believe in Him, for He made you and He believes in you. The Lord will use His love and grace that dances off of you, to encourage others in their faith and draw them closer to Himself. When we live a life depending on Him, we are radically, radiant! And as we grow in an understanding of Who the Lord is and live lives seeking and loving Him, we will grow in strength, hope, purpose and joy.
2 comments:
Your blog made me think of Moses whose face was radiant after being with God. He had to cover it with a veil because it was so bright that the people couldn't look at him. Yet he was the most humble man who ever lived. Amazing. Good thoughts, Andrea!
Thanks, Betsy, for your additional insight. In our family, we call people who outwardly shine for the Lord, having "Moses glow," after that very story!
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