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By Peggy Still—
For now we see through a mirror darkly, but then it will be face to face. Now I know partially, but then I will know completely in the same way that I have been completely known.I Corinthians 13:12 (Common English Bible)
At the beginning of each New Year many of us make resolutions to live a better life. Resolution, in Webster’s Dictionary, is defined as the act of finding an answer or solution to a conflict or problem. It is also the ability of a device to show an image clearly and with a lot of detail. A revolution is defined as a sudden, extreme, or fundamental change in the way one lives or works.
The mirror described in the verse in I Corinthians consisted of rough metal and needed constant polishing to keep it clear enough to see into. This famous passage from the Bible was written by the apostle Paul in a letter to the church in Corinth, which was known for making these kinds of mirrors. Because of limited refining tools, the images reflected in the glass were seen darkly, so that the reflection appears imperfect.
The church of Corinth had a daunting list of problems that were undermining the effectiveness of their witness. The gifts God had given to them they were using self-righteously. Paul’s letter to the people of Corinth gave instructions in Christian conduct and a list of resolutions to effectively change their work, the way they conducted their daily lives, and in the way they worshiped. You could sum up Paul’s instruction like this: God’s wisdom applied to worldly problems produces supernatural results. Using the metaphor of a mirror, he explains that their vision is blurred and the way to clear sight is through spiritual maturity of both the individuals and the church as a whole.
We often see ourselves, our future, and even Christ Himself as if we are looking through a dark, imperfect glass. The necessary tools are available to us that we may have a revelation, but our understanding of it is only partial. Like the people of Corinth, we forget that God gives gifts that Christ might be exalted and others blessed. Should God decide to give us any gift at all, it is not to gather others to ourselves, but to be a blessing for others.
Let’s make this New Year’s resolution to mature in our faith now, and start a revolution to effect fundamental change by receiving His spiritual wisdom and applying it personally, so we are fully completed when Jesus returns.
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Peggy is embarking on a new career in mid-life. A featured speaker for women’s groups and retreats, she is the author of hundred of devotionals and articles in a variety of areas of interest to women. Married to Mark for 36 years, they have one daughter and raised two foster children. Peggy and Mark make their home in southern California.
Peggy, when we were in Corinth, we went to a museum and saw an example of a mirror…how tarnished it was, how dim the reflection. I thought of that again when I read this inspiring post. Bless you.
Wow, revolutionaries! What a new thought. I like that, thanks.