Radiant

Radiant

I saw the glory of the God of Israel coming from the east. His voice was like the roar of rushing waters, and the land was radiant with his glory.

I BOUGHT A HAPPY LIGHT RECENTLY. Though it was still warm and sunny outside, I was thinking ahead to the darkest part of winter, with its short days and gloomy weather. Though I love the cozy warmth of my home, I miss the radiant sunlight of the summer months. Happy lights, also known as light therapy lamps, give the user exposure to light when there’s less sun in the fall and winter months. Sitting near a light therapy box that gives off bright light that mimics natural, outdoor light is believed to increase energy levels and boost your mood.

So in the mornings, after I pour a cup of coffee and swirl in caramel pecan cream, I sink into my floral orange chair and immediately turn on the light. It’s best to use it in the morning, as it affects brain chemicals linked to mood and sleep. As I sit and read the news or a devotional, the light illuminates the entire room. In fact, the radiance of it fills the room with such a bright glow that my husband can see it outside the house when he returns from exercising. It’s searing to the eyes (and not recommended) to look directly at it, so it’s best to be adjacent to it.

How often our physical world echoes the spiritual world. Because isn’t Jesus the radiant light of the world? And aren’t we meant to be positioned next to him, basking in his glory that radiates for all the world to see? Like my happy light, it’s important for us to start the day in the radiance of the Son. I find that the more I focus on him, the more my perspective shifts, and I’m energized by his love and care. Only then can I go about the course of my day. As we seek to follow him, the radiance of his love will reflect off of us for all to see.

Lord, thank you for the radiant light of your love. Help us to begin each day with you. Amen.

-Kristin

One Good Step: Consider your morning routine. How might you incorporate the radiance of God’s presence into your day?