Reflecting Christ in our Faces
A Transformation of the Heart and Face
In 2 Corinthians 3:18, the Apostle Paul writes, “And we all, who with unveiled faces contemplate the Lord’s glory, are being transformed into his image with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit.” This verse beautifully captures the essence of Christian growth: transformation into the likeness of Christ. As we gaze upon Jesus, we are changed—little by little, from one degree of glory to another.
Eugene Peterson, in The Message, paraphrases this transformation as “our lives gradually becoming brighter and more beautiful as God enters our lives, and we become like him.” This brightness, this beauty, is not superficial but a deep, spiritual radiance that emanates from within. This transformation is not merely an internal change but one that radiates outward, even to our faces.
It has been said that while we cannot control the natural beauty of our face, we can control the expression on it. Our faces often mirror the state of our hearts. Richard Foster, in his work on spiritual disciplines, notes that “to pray is to change. Prayer is the central avenue God uses to transform us.” As we engage in prayer, our countenance reflects this inner change, becoming a testimony to the world around us. The joy, peace, and love of Christ that dwell within us inevitably shine through, making our faces a canvas that reflects His glory. The expression on a believer’s face can be a powerful testimony to the world, an outward sign of the inward change wrought by the Holy Spirit.
The Bible frequently uses imagery of the face and eyes to convey deeper spiritual truths. Psalm 104:27 says, "All creatures look to you to give them their food at the proper time." While this verse speaks of God’s provision of physical food, it also hints at the spiritual nourishment we receive when we turn our gaze to Him. Dallas Willard, in The Divine Conspiracy, emphasizes the importance of this gaze: “The first act of love is always the giving of attention.” As we give our attention to Christ, our faces are lifted toward God in dependence and trust, and in that gaze, we are fed and sustained.
The idea that “the eyes are the windows to the soul” resonates with biblical teaching. When we say, “You should have seen the look on their face,” we often mean that the person’s face revealed their true feelings—whether joy, anger, sorrow, or love. In the same way, when we look into someone’s eyes, we often feel we can glimpse their inner world, their struggles, and their joys. The face becomes a mirror of the heart, reflecting what lies within.
But what happens when we gaze upon Christ? When we spend time in His presence, meditating on His Word, and communing with Him in prayer, we begin to reflect His image. William Barclay writes, “We begin by thinking that we can change ourselves; and we end by realizing that it is God who changes us. The more we contemplate Christ, the more we become like Him.” Just as people often imitate the mannerisms and expressions of those they admire, so too do we begin to reflect the character of Christ as we behold Him.
Jesus said, “The eye is the lamp of the body. If your eyes are healthy, your whole body will be full of light” (Matthew 6:22). A healthy, focused gaze on Christ fills our entire being with His light. Matthew Henry comments, “The soul that sees the glory of God in the face of Christ is changed into the same image.” This light cannot be hidden; it shines forth from our faces, revealing the transformation that has taken place within us.
This transformation is not merely for our benefit but serves as a witness to others. The world is filled with people who are spiritually hungry, searching for meaning and truth. When they look into the faces of believers who have been transformed by Christ, they should see something different—something that draws them toward the source of that transformation.
As we continue to behold the glory of the Lord, let us remember that this glory is not just for our own sanctification but also for the world to see. Our faces, like Moses’ after he descended from Mount Sinai, should shine with the glory of God. And as others see that glory, may they be drawn to Christ, the one who transforms us “from one degree of glory to another.”
In conclusion, let us strive to keep our eyes fixed on Jesus, allowing His light to fill us and change us. Let our faces reflect His glory, our expressions be a testimony to His love, and our lives be a witness to the world of the transformative power of His Spirit. For it is in His presence that we are truly changed, and in that change, we reflect the beauty of the One who saved us.
