God has provided glimpses of his glory and holiness (Exodus 34:29-35). These revelations inspire awe and worship (Psalm 99). Our hope rests in God’s revelation to us through Jesus Christ. Thanks be to God! He is transforming us through his Spirit and calling us into the light of his glory (2 Corinthians 3:12-4:2). At times, we may be terrified, but we are called to trust God and listen to his Chosen Son as we worship and wait for his healing (Luke 9:28-43a).
Wait for God’s Salvation / Extend Forgiveness and Mercy
Forgiveness and mercy accompany God’s plan to prosper and protect his people (Genesis 45:3-11,15). We are called to trust in God and wait for his salvation in the midst of those who reject God and his ways (Psalm 37:1-11,39-40). We must go the extra mile to love our enemies and extend mercy (Luke 6:27-38). For we know that we will one day inherit imperishable bodies and that our suffering will come to an end (1 Cor. 15:35-38,42-50).
Those who trust in God and follow his ways (Jeremiah 17:5-10) are like trees planted next to water (Psalm 1). Jesus Christ was raised from the dead, so our faith is confirmed and we are compelled to share this gospel (1 Corinthians 15:12-20). Jesus came to bring hope to the oppressed and warning to those who trust in riches and worldly acclaim (Luke 6:17-26).
“The holiness of God reminds us of our own sin and the need for salvation (Isaiah 6:1-13). Even in the middle of trouble, God’s steadfast love and watchful care protect us (Psalm 138), and his grace toward us through the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ offers us eternal salvation (1 Corinthians 15:1-11). Just as Christ urged Simon Peter to do, we must share this good news with others (Luke 5:1-11).” – Thomas Oden, Ancient Christian Devotional