You and I are not only observers of God’s glory; we are part of it. The scriptures instruct us that we were created for His glory. That is not just a statement about how we are to conduct ourselves, nor is it just a statement about who we are; it is also a statement about what we are.
In Christ, we are displays of God’s glory as much as the heavens, as much as the mountains, and as much as the oceans. We too are part of the glory of God’s creation. According to His word, we shine like stars in the universe. David observed, “I am fearfully and wonderfully made.” The church exists as a display for the praise of His glory. That means we are individually and collectively part of the same creation that fills us with awe. As a glorious event is comprised of individual parts and is only as glorious as the sum of its parts, so it is with God’s glory.
But here’s where it really gets good. The glory of all other parts of creation will fade, but not the glory we have been given. Ours is a never-fading glory. More than that, it is a glory that continues to increase and expand and deepen. Indeed, as it is written, we are being transformed from glory to glory. We will still be reflecting the fruit of His work in us even in our old age. Like vintage wine, we become aged glory. And beyond this life we will be His eternal and ever-glorious bride.
So, the next time you are awed by the vastness of the stars, or the artistry of the skies, or the majesty of the mountains, or the breadth and depth of the ocean, don’t forget to also look in the mirror. God’s glory is expressed in all of it and in you.
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