Thursday, January 23, 2025

Revelations of God's Light

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1 The heavens are telling the glory of God; and the firmament proclaims his handiwork. 2 Day to day pours forth speech, and night to night declares knowledge. 3 There is no speech, nor are there words; their voice is not heard; 4 yet their voice goes out through all the earth, and their words to the end of the world. In the heavens he has set a tent for the sun, 5 which comes out like a bridegroom from his wedding canopy, and like a strong man runs its course with joy. 6 Its rising is from the end of the heavens, and its circuit to the end of them; and nothing is hid from its heat. 7 The law of the Lord is perfect, reviving the soul; the decrees of the Lord are sure, making wise the simple; 8 the precepts of the Lord are right, rejoicing the heart; the commandment of the Lord is clear, enlightening the eyes; 9 the fear of the Lord is pure, enduring forever; the ordinances of the Lord are true and righteous altogether. 10 More to be desired are they than gold, even much fine gold; sweeter also than honey, and drippings of the honeycomb. 11 Moreover by them is your servant warned; in keeping them there is great reward. 12 But who can detect their errors? Clear me from hidden faults. 13 Keep back your servant also from the insolent; do not let them have dominion over me. Then I shall be blameless, and innocent of great transgression. 14 Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable to you, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer.. (Psalm 19 NRSV)

Good day Friend! This is the day that the Lord hath made, let us rejoice and be glad in it! I believe that a person who has a deep love for God also should have a deep love for all of creation. The awe and wonder of all things go a long way towards a more happier life, a more positive outlook, and a deeper sense of peace. Such was the life of Israel's greatest king. All the years in the pasture led him to a successful, albeit not perfect, life in the palace. What that means for many of us is to put down the phones, the video games, the unneeded distractions and more time outside! Let's see what the psalmist shared in this passage for us.

As we celebrate the season of Epiphany, we are reminded of the light that came into the world through Jesus Christ. This is a season where the revelation of God is made manifest—not just in the star that guided the Magi, but in the ongoing ways God’s presence illuminates our lives. Psalm 19 beautifully invites us to consider how God's glory is revealed in both the vastness of creation and the perfection of His Word. In this way, the psalm provides a fitting reflection for Epiphany, a season when we are invited to open our eyes and hearts to the light of Christ.

1. The Glory of God Revealed in Creation (Psalm 19:1-6) "The heavens are telling the glory of God; and the firmament proclaims his handiwork." Psalm 19 begins with an awe-inspiring declaration of God's glory as revealed through the created world. The sky, the sun, and all of creation tell of God's greatness. There are no words needed—creation itself is a constant testimony to the Creator. The sun’s path across the sky, the movement of the stars, and the rhythms of nature all speak of God’s power, wisdom, and beauty. Every moment is an invitation to see God's handiwork reflected in the world around us.

Epiphany invites us to see God’s light in new and unexpected places. Just as the Magi followed the star to find Jesus, we are called to look for God’s light in the world around us. Creation does not merely exist for its own sake; it exists to reveal the greatness of God. The beauty we encounter in nature, the majesty of the mountains, and the quiet stillness of a sunrise all speak of the Creator. How often do we pause to notice and give thanks for the glory of God displayed in the world? In this season of Epiphany, let’s attune our hearts to see the light of God shining through creation.

2. The Perfection of God’s Word (Psalm 19:7-11) "The law of the Lord is perfect, reviving the soul." While creation speaks of God’s glory, the psalmist also declares the perfection of God's law. The law is not burdensome; rather, it revives the soul. It is trustworthy, it brings wisdom to the simple, and it enlightens the eyes. God’s Word is a light that shines on our path, guiding us toward truth and righteousness. In a world full of noise and confusion, the Scriptures offer us a firm foundation—a sure and steady light by which we can walk.

In this season of Epiphany, we are reminded that Christ is the Word made flesh. Jesus is the living Word, the ultimate revelation of God's love and truth. Through Him, the fullness of God’s wisdom is made known. As we read the Scriptures, we are invited to encounter the very light of Christ that illuminates our hearts and minds. How do you approach God’s Word? Do you see it as a source of light and life, capable of guiding you through every challenge? In this season of light, take time to immerse yourself in Scripture and allow it to refresh and revive your spirit.

3. The Call for Purity and Integrity (Psalm 19:12-14) "But who can detect their errors? Clear me from hidden faults." The psalm ends with a prayer of confession and a plea for God’s cleansing. The psalmist acknowledges that even the most righteous person falls short of God's holiness, and so he asks God to forgive his hidden faults and to help him live with integrity. The psalmist's longing is not only for the outward obedience to God’s law but also for an inward purity—a life that reflects God’s holiness in every part.

Epiphany calls us to respond to the light of Christ by seeking transformation. Just as the Magi offered gifts to the child Jesus, we too are invited to offer our lives in worship. The light of Christ exposes the darkness within us, but it does not leave us in that darkness. Rather, it calls us to be made new. Through the grace of God, we can be cleansed, renewed, and empowered to live lives that reflect His glory. As you consider the light of Christ in this season, reflect on areas of your life that need transformation. Where might God be calling you to walk more closely with Him?

PRAYER: Loving God, we thank You for the light of creation that speaks of Your glory and the light of Your Word that guides us. In this season of Epiphany, open our eyes to see the ways You are revealing Yourself to us—in nature, in Scripture, and in the life of Jesus. Cleanse us, Lord, from our hidden faults, and help us to walk in integrity before You. May Your light shine brightly in our hearts, leading us to live in ways that reflect Your love and truth. In the name of Jesus, the Light of the world we pray, Amen.

Have a great and blessed day in the Lord. OUR CALL TO ACTION: Take a walk outside today, even if only for a few minutes, and reflect on how creation reveals God’s glory. Let the beauty around you be a reminder of His majesty. Take a moment to read a passage from the Scriptures, and invite the Holy Spirit to speak to your heart through it. Allow God’s Word to light your path and refresh your soul. Finally, ask God to reveal any hidden areas of your life that need cleansing or transformation. Offer those areas to Him, and trust that He will make you new in His light.

I love you and I thank God for you!

Pastor Eradio Valverde, Jr.