Reflection and Refraction

“But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord.– II Corinthians 3:18

 

Refraction is a process that takes place when light changes mediums, passing through a less dense medium to a denser medium and through that medium; often back into a less dense sphere with awe inspiring results. As the light is bent, brilliant colors often present themselves to the eye and turn our sight toward God.

 

While this may not be the best scientific explanation of what takes place in the natural realm, it illustrates some elements of the spiritual refraction of God’s light as it passes through mediums of His choosing to change us into authentic representations of His image.

 

That is what we were always intended to be from the time we were made in the image of God. We were created to be reflectors, refractors, and beholders of His glory.

 

As the rays of the sun pass through the stained glass of our church windows, they are bent and shaped and exploded into glorious colors, invading those houses with kaleidoscopes of beauty. They point our hearts and minds toward the God of the rainbow. They thrust us to our knees in worship. They draw forth our exclamations of praise and inspire us toward the transformation of the Spirit.

 

As glorious as the light of the sun may be, it is a dim reflection of the glory of God in Jesus Christ through the Holy Spirit. He is the true light come to illuminate the world.