“For God, who said, ‘Let light shine out of darkness,’ made his light shine in our hearts to give us the light of the knowledge of God’s glory displayed in the face of Christ.” – 2 Corinthians 4:6.
Understanding God’s Glory through Christ
A Simple Truth about Light and Hearts
This passage from Paul, an early leader in the Christian faith, is like a window into God’s heart. He explains how Jesus is more than just a historical figure—he’s the way we can truly see and understand God. Paul uses the image of light to help us grasp this idea. Just as God created light to brighten the world at the beginning of time, he also brings light into our hearts through Jesus. This isn’t just about physical brightness—it’s about removing the darkness of confusion and sin, giving us clarity and hope.
Jesus as the Reflection of God
Have you ever looked into someone’s face and felt you could understand who they really are? Paul uses that idea here, saying that Jesus’ face shows us who God truly is. It’s not just about what Jesus looked like physically but about what he represented. Through Jesus’ life, actions, and teachings, we see God’s love, kindness, and glory—all the amazing things about God—put into human form.
Light that Transforms
The “light” Paul talks about isn’t just a metaphor for being wise or smart. It’s something deeper—it’s life-changing. This light enters our hearts and changes us from the inside out, helping us live better, love better, and grow closer to God. Imagine walking into a dark room and suddenly switching on a bright light; everything becomes clear. That’s what God’s light does in our hearts when we come to know Jesus.
God’s Glory Made Real
In the Bible, “glory” often means the greatness and presence of God. For a long time, people thought of God’s glory as something far-off, like smoke on a mountain or hidden in a temple. But in Jesus, that glory isn’t distant anymore—it’s close and personal. Through Jesus, we see God’s greatness in a way we can understand. It’s not overwhelming or scary; it’s like a warm, welcoming light that invites us to come closer.
Paul’s Life-Changing Moment
Paul understood this better than most because of his own story. Before he started following Jesus, he was focused on following religious rules and even persecuted Christians. Then, one day, he had a dramatic encounter with Jesus that changed everything. He saw the light—literally—and realized that God wasn’t just about laws and traditions. God was fully revealed in Jesus. This moment shaped Paul’s entire life and the things he taught about faith.
What It Means for Us
The idea that Jesus shows us God’s face isn’t just something for ancient times—it’s for today too. It means we can approach God with confidence, knowing he isn’t distant or unapproachable. Jesus makes God’s love and presence clear to us. And when we spend time learning about Jesus, we’re also learning about God.
Becoming Reflectors of the Light
Paul says that encountering Jesus isn’t just about receiving light—it’s about reflecting it too. When we see God’s glory in Jesus, it changes us so that we can share that light with others. Kindness, love, forgiveness, and hope are ways we can show God’s light to the world.
The Mystery of God’s Glory
Even though we can see and experience God’s glory through Jesus, it’s still full of wonder and mystery. There’s always more to learn and discover in our relationship with God. This keeps faith exciting and meaningful, reminding us that God is infinite and always present in our lives.
Conclusion: Seeing God in Jesus
Paul’s reflection in 2 Corinthians 4:6 gives us a simple yet powerful truth: if you want to know God, look at Jesus. His life shows us God’s love, wisdom, and light. It’s an invitation to grow closer to God and a challenge to reflect his glory in our own lives. Through Jesus, we see the face of God—a face filled with grace, hope, and the promise of new beginnings.
Blessings,
Minister A. Francine Green
afrancinegreen.com 