Reflecting God's Glory: Exodus 34:29-35

Monday: Reflecting God’s Glory
Scripture: Exodus 34:29-35

Why Do I Feel Unseen?
There’s a deep longing in every human heart to be noticed, to be seen for who we truly are. We chase after recognition in school, at work, even in our friendships. Social media has made this hunger even more obvious—we post, we share, we curate an image of ourselves, all hoping that someone will see and affirm us. But the more we seek validation from others, the more we realize how fleeting it is. Is there a kind of recognition that truly satisfies?

Moses came down from Mount Sinai with his face shining, though he didn’t realize it at first. He had been in God’s presence, receiving the Law a second time after Israel’s rebellion with the golden calf. His radiant face was not a reflection of his own greatness, but of God’s glory. This moment connects back to earlier encounters Moses had with God—like when he asked to see God’s glory in Exodus 33, and God allowed him only a glimpse. Now, after speaking with the Lord, Moses’ face shone so brightly that the Israelites were afraid to come near him. He had to veil his face, except when he returned to meet with God again.

This passage is a pivotal moment in the story of Israel. God had chosen them as His people, but their sin kept them at a distance. Even Moses, their leader, could only reflect God’s glory temporarily. But this event also foreshadows something greater. Paul later tells us in 2 Corinthians 3 that while Moses’ glory faded, those who belong to Christ behold God’s glory with unveiled faces—and are being transformed into His likeness. Jesus, the true and better Moses, has made a way for us to stand in God’s presence permanently. His face shone on the Mount of Transfiguration (Luke 9:28-36), not because He was reflecting God’s glory, but because He is God’s glory.

Finding Our True Recognition in Christ
If you’ve ever felt unseen, remember this: the most important recognition you can receive isn’t from the world, but from God Himself. Moses didn’t make his face shine—God did. Likewise, your value isn’t found in how others perceive you, but in the fact that you are made in God’s image and redeemed by Christ. Instead of chasing after fleeting affirmation, draw near to Jesus, the one whose face shines with the light of God’s love.

Practically, this means shifting our focus. Instead of seeking to be noticed, we should seek to reflect Christ. Ask yourself: does my life shine with His grace, truth, and love? Do my words and actions point others to Him? This doesn’t mean putting on a show of spirituality but spending time in His presence through Scripture, prayer, and worship. Just as Moses’ face shone after meeting with God, our lives will radiate Christ’s love when we abide in Him.

And here’s the best news: while Moses’ glow faded, the transformation we receive in Christ is permanent. By His Spirit, we are being changed day by day into His image. We don’t need to strive to make ourselves shine—God Himself is at work in us. Rest in that truth, and let His light shine through you.

Transform Our Heart Through Prayer
Lord Jesus, I confess that I often seek recognition in the wrong places. I long to be seen and affirmed, but I forget that You have already called me Your own. Help me to rest in the truth that I am known, loved, and valued by You. As I spend time in Your presence, transform me to reflect Your glory. May my life point others to You, not for my sake, but for Yours. Holy Spirit, shape me into the image of Christ, so that His light shines through me. Amen.