February 24 – Transformed Into His Likeness

"Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is." (1 John 3:2, KJV)

Jesus, the Redeemer of the world, knows each of His children by name, and upon those who believe, the glory of God will rest. Those who fix their gaze upon Jesus are transformed into His image, reflecting His character. As they behold Him, they are changed from glory to glory, becoming more and more like their Savior. The more they contemplate Christ, the more they love Him and long to see Him, and as they draw nearer to Him, their light shines brighter until the perfect day.

It is through faith that the spiritual eyes behold the glory of Jesus. This glory remains hidden until the Lord reveals the light of spiritual truth, for human reason alone cannot comprehend it. The majesty and mystery of Christ are beyond natural understanding until the Lord makes them shine in the heart. By faith, the soul perceives the divine light of Christ. His purity, humility, self-denial, and the unfathomable sacrifice He made for fallen humanity captivate the heart. When a person contemplates Christ, they come to understand their own worth—not because of their own merit, but because of the love of God that has lifted them up. The hope of becoming like Jesus, the One they love and worship, strengthens their faith, which works through love and purifies the soul.

Jesus is more precious to those who behold Him by faith than anything else in this world. Likewise, His faithful children are more precious to Him than the finest gold of Ophir. Christ looks upon His own hands, bearing the marks of His sacrifice, and declares:

"Behold, I have graven thee upon the palms of my hands; thy walls are continually before me." (Isaiah 49:16, KJV)

The Christian is surrounded by the rich and unfailing promises of the infinite God.

The Lord is coming with power and great glory. All who have made Christ their refuge will reflect His image and will be like Him, for they shall see Him as He is. They will be presented before Him without "spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish." (Ephesians 5:27, KJV)