Gods’ glory is “theophanic luminosity” i.e. a radiant presence like a “consuming fire” (Ex 24:17, Heb 12:18). [1] “Psalm 24 tells of the King of Glory- a being so majestic and powerful that the doors and gates of his palace have to rise up to honour his presence” (ibid).
However, God’s Glory, veiled in the flesh of Jesus Christ (Jn. 1:14), is most clearly revealed in the most unexpected way. On the cross, through the broken body of Christ, God’s Glory radiates like never before. God’s Glory is “self-spending love that causes others to flourish” (ibid). God’s Glory makes today’s theme, “Healing Human Relationships” possible. For in Christ, God reconciles the world to himself (Col 1:19-20).
God’s self-spending love also sustains us in grief. Today we lift up in prayer Lekgolo and Azolo. Their daughter Akahlulwa Ovayo was baptized on the 14th December shortly before the family relocated to Johannesburg. Our sister, Akahlulwa, died on Tuesday. We share their tears. In their darkest hour we will believe for them that Akahlulwa dwells with the Saints in Glory.
God Bless,
Sean
[1] Prof. Neal Plantinga “Glorifying God in Worship: What Audacity and What Wonder!” presented at the conference “God Bless Africa: Worship for a Time Like This”. Londiwe, Taryn, Charles and I attended this conference from Tue-Thu. We have returned brimming with ideas to share with you. Some of those ideas you’ll experience today.