March 14 | John 5:36-47

Carmel Elmer
5 days ago
3 min read

DAILY READING

REFLECTION

Where Do You Find Glory?

By Carmel Elmer

After reading today's passage, I looked up the definition of glory. There are a number of different meanings but the one I like best is this:

"High renown or honor won by notable achievements"

At first glance, I didn't set out to write about glory, but in reading and re-reading this text, it's the word that stood out to me and I realized, God was convicting my heart. I generally talk a good game and have convinced myself that God is first in my life. I am the first one to advise others to stop putting so much trust in others and to place their trust in Jesus as the savior of the world rather than a world leader who claims to have all the answers. If I've said it once, I've said it hundreds of times, "I'm not going to let myself be anxious over what I see on the news because I know who's really in charge." And when I think about my kids, my job, or the volunteer work I do I like to believe that it's done for God's glory, not mine.

But lately, I have to confess that I don't behave that way and sometimes I find myself getting very anxious about the world we live in based on current events in the news. I find myself comparing myself to others and making judgements of them (or me) based on accomplishments, appearances, or stature. As much as I don't want it to be about me, most of the time, it is. Ugh! That's not the kind of person I want to be!

Every part of me wants my life to reflect God's glory in all that I do, all that I say, and in every interaction that I have with others. Today, I am reminded that NONE of those things can happen by my power or because of my glory. They come from God! I realize I am not that different from the Jewish leaders that Jesus was speaking to when he said these words:

"...but I know you. I know that you do not have the love of God in your hearts. I have come in my Father's name, and you do not accept me; but if someone else comes in his own name, you will accept him. How can you believe since you accept glory from one another but do not seek the glory that comes from the only God?" vs42-44

I don't know about you but God has some work to do in my heart. Thankfully, Jesus paved the way for me, and for you, to be forgiven and given new mercies everyday. It's hard to overcome being human. Thank God we have a glorious savior who was willing to take our place on that cross of shame so we don't have to live alone in our human failings and desire for our own glory. May we all take this gift and carry the love of Jesus, His glory, His compassion, His light and, yes, His humility in our hearts today and everyday. But, don't worry. He knows we may not get it right; but He's not willing to give up on us!

PRAYER

Lord, we are grateful for new mercies every morning. Let us begin each day affirming our need for You and striving to be a reflection of your glory and light to others. Thank you for the reminder today, that it's not about us. It's always about You and we can only accomplish things great and small by Your power and through Your glory.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

CARMEL ELMER

I have attended UALC for nearly 25 years, but faith has always been at the center of my life. My mom was an incredible role model, demonstrating a trust in God that surpassed any circumstance. I will always be grateful for her incredible example of faith, and I pray that one day, my children will say the same about me.