Reflecting the beauty of Christ is a profound aspect of Christian life, emphasising the transformational power of the Gospel. The Bible, especially in the New Testament, frequently discusses this theme. One of the key passages is 2 Corinthians 3:18.
“And we all, who with unveiled faces contemplate the Lord’s glory, are being transformed into his image with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit.” 2 Corinthians 3:18 (NIV).
In this passage, the apostle Paul speaks to the Corinthians about the transformative power of beholding the glory of the Lord. Just as Moses’ face radiated God’s glory after being in His presence, we too, as believers, are called to reflect the beauty of Christ. As Christians, we are continually being transformed to reflect the image of Christ more and more, as we grow in our relationship with Him. This transformation is not merely external but involves our hearts and character, as we are changed to reflect His beauty, love, and holiness in our lives.
In a world often characterized by self-promotion and individualism, the call to reflect the beauty and humility of Christ stands out as a radical and countercultural message. As Christians, this call is not just a suggestion but a profound invitation to mirror the character of Jesus in our daily lives, interactions, and attitudes.
One of the central aspects of Christ’s character is His beauty. Not a beauty defined by outward appearance or worldly standards, but a beauty that emanates from his perfect love, compassion, and grace. This beauty is seen in his interactions with others, especially the marginalized and oppressed. These qualities, when embodied by believers, become a powerful testimony to the transformative power of the Gospel. He showed kindness to the outcasts, healed the sick, and stood up for the downtrodden. As followers of Christ, we are called to reflect this beauty in how we treat others, just as a mirror faithfully reflects an image, we are called to mirror Christ in our actions and words, showing love and compassion to all, regardless of their background or circumstances.
Another key aspect of Christ’s character is his humility. Despite being the Son of God, Jesus humbled himself, taking on the form of a servant and ultimately sacrificing himself for the sake of others (Philippians 2:5-8). His humility was not a sign of weakness, but of strength and love. As Christians, we are called to emulate this humility, putting others before ourselves and serving those in need with a spirit of humility and grace.
Reflecting the beauty and humility of Christ is not always easy in a world that often values pride and self-promotion. It requires a constant reorientation of our hearts and minds, a willingness to set aside our own desires and ambitions in order to follow the example of Jesus. It means seeking to love and serve others, even when it is difficult or inconvenient. It means choosing humility over pride, forgiveness over resentment, and grace over judgement. But in doing so, we not only honor God, but we also become beacons of light in a dark world, pointing others towards the beauty and humility of Christ.
One of the most powerful ways we reflect Christ’s beauty and humility is through our relationships. When we love others sacrificially, forgive as Christ forgave us, and extend grace to those who least deserve it, we mirror the heart of Christ to the world. Our lives become a living testimony to the transformative power of the Gospel.
Ultimately, reflecting the beauty and humility of Christ is not something we can do in our own strength. It is only through the power of the Holy Spirit working in us that we can truly reflect these virtues. As we yield to the Spirit’s leading as Christians, we are called to reflect the beauty and humility of Christ in our daily lives. This means showing love and compassion to all and humbling ourselves to serve others. By doing so, we become true reflections of the character of Christ, shining his light into the world around us.
APPLICATION
As we meditate on the truth that we are a people of God unleashed to transform our world, let us be encouraged to seek God’s presence daily. May His Spirit mold us into His image, and may our lives reflect the beauty of Christ in such a way that others are drawn to Him through us. May we shine as lights in a world that desperately needs His love and grace.
Written by Elder John Anaman Essiam (PENSA-India)