May His Face Shine On Us

I love summer and I love the sun. There is just something about the sun that is renewing. In fact, the sun is actually used in Scripture as a poetic description of God’s blessing upon his people. The priest was to dismiss God’s people from worship with the words, “The Lord make his face SHINE upon you and be gracious to you” (Num 6:25). Note the connection between God’s face shining upon his people and his gracious work of blessing them.

Scripture speaks with clarity on God’s renewing and restoring work in His people. “He has put a new song in my mouth” (Psa 40:3). “Renew a steadfast spirit in me” (Psa 51:10). “You renew the face of the earth” (Psa 140:30). “Those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength” (Isa 40:31). “He satisfies your mouth with good things so that your strength is renewed” (Psa 103:5). “He restores my soul” (Psa 23:3). “Inwardly we are being renewed day by day” (2 Cor 4:16). “Restore us again, Oh God our Savior” (Psa 85:4).

God is a God who renews. But we must avail ourselves to what Calvin (and other reformers) called the means of grace. Worship. Prayer. Community. Rest. Scripture. After a great sabbatical – and time of personal and spiritual renewal - I’m looking forward to seeing you each week on the Lord’s day – and asking God for his renewal for us all.

As you enjoy the summer sun make this your prayer – “May God be gracious to us and make his face shine upon us.” (Psa 67:1).

What does God use to renew you? I would love to hear your thoughts.