The Transforming Gaze

2 Corinthians 3:12-18

We all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another. (2 Corinthians 3:18, ESV)

ONE FORM OF CHRISTIANITY IN the late Middle Ages emphasized the importance of church structures and doctrines. Men who were educated in theology and appointed to ecclesiastical positions often considered themselves holier and more dedicated than anyone else—even when their beliefs became highly political and personally ineffective. Other forms of Christianity—more informal and democratic forms whose followers included peasants, women, and mystics who might not have all their theology perfectly in order—emphasized personal interaction with God. The hierarchical, authoritative approaches insisted on precise theology and priestly rule; the unsanctioned approaches ventured into divine experiences with God himself.

Which approach changed more lives? The experiential one, of course. In reality, these various forms overlapped quite a bit. But in every place and in every age, those who spend time allowing their souls to gaze at God are transformed, while those who invest themselves in structures and programs often find their hearts disappointingly stuck in the ways of the world. The soul busy with activities may accomplish a lot and receive accolades, but the soul at rest in the love of the Father, Son, and Spirit experiences an altogether different and more satisfying kind of power. Transformation comes not by methods and achievements but by beholding the Lord’s glory.

Scripture always points us in this direction. Each of our lives—and history itself—will culminate in a great transformation based on our spiritual gaze: “We do know that we will be like him, for we will see him as he really is” (1 John 3:2). Principles and disciplines may help us from time to time, but the primary shaper of our hearts and lives is the vision we have. If our vision is filled with the nature of God, we become like him. If it isn’t, we don’t. Casting our eyes on the nature and glory of God changes us—and through us, it changes the world.

{Lord, fix my gaze on you. May I hold your glories, your nature, and your truth in my heart at all times. Transform me with visions of who you really are. Amen.