The Rising Glory

UV 1179/10,000 The Rising Glory

Arise, shine; for thy light is come, and the glory of the LORD is risen upon thee.


Isaiah 60 v 1



The Lord desires that we are awake, aware and alert. We are called to arise or develop in every realm and domain and in every way. Just as a plant grows naturally attracted towards the sunlight and a plant that is hidden from the light bends its shoot to reach out from under the shelter towards the source of light, we too should grow towards the light of Jesus, the light of life, the sun that shines on humanity with glory, grace and healing in its wings.



How do we shine with light? First, we need to absorb the Word and be saturated in it for His Word is a “light unto my eyes and a lamp unto my feet.” It is both a direction finder to find the path of eternity as well as a lamp to guide us step by step in our daily walk. It combines a telescopic lens that gives us a vision of the distant future and beyond as well as microscopic lens that enables us to see the immediate, the invisible, aspects of the “here and now.” It also turns the incoherent and seemingly disconnected parts of our lives into a distinct kaleidoscopic vision- beautiful patterns will emerge that will shine for God. No longer do we have to search like pilgrims for the light or the glory of God. It has arrived. It has already happened. It is available and accessible. It is part of the finished work of Christ on the cross. Now, we have crossed over from death to eternal life, from shame to glory, from strife to peace, from frustration to fulfilment, from failure to success, from curses to blessings, from darkness of every kind to light.



Second, after we absorb the Word like a sponge, we neet to emit it like light or teach it or share it in appropriate contexts and ways with others whom God brings in our paths. By writing the uni-verse and sharing it, I am emitting the light of the Lord throughout the globe.

Third, in our areas of work, we need to excel in our conduct, speech, relationships and performance. By our good deeds and good words, people should thank and praise God for us. Fourth, we need to use the intellect,talents, opportunities, resources and network we have to try to lighten the load of others, try to solve problems facing a section of humanity, however large or small.



“The glory of the Lord is risen upon thee” implies that the presence of God is with us in whatever we think, speak and do and we will find amazing results happening in the things we attempt or endeavour. Just as a star miraculously appeared right over the manger where Jesus was born, His glory will be visible over each of us. It is both evidence and enablement at work in our lives. Glory of God expresses itself in grace. There is a surprise element that God revels in for the way He works is unpredictable. Moses was never told ahead of time that God’s glory would part the Red Sea to enable the Israelites to cross to safety. The supernatural dimension will unfold before our very eyes. It will further redound to the praise and glory of God. Our lives are like mirrors that reflect the glory of God.



Prateep V Philip