2 minute read.
Daily Reading: Deuteronomy 18:1-20:20 ESV, Luke 9:28-50 ESV, Psalm 73:1-28 ESV, Proverbs 12:10 ESV
Daily Verse: “As he was saying these things, a cloud came and overshadowed them, and they were afraid as they entered the cloud.” (Luke 9:34 ESV)
EPISKIAZO (1982): “To cast a shade upon, i.e., to envelop in a haze of brilliancy, fig. to invest with preternatural influence. A vaporous cloud that casts a shadow to word is transferred to a shining cloud surrounding and enveloping persons with brightness. It is used of the bright cloud at the Transfiguration, Mt. 17:5, Mk 97, Luke 9:34.” [i]
Bright clouds.
Jesus, on the mountain with Peter, James, and John, received an introduction from the Father in a spectacular way. A brilliant cloud overshadowed the crew, God’s voice coming from it:
“This is my Son, my Chosen One; listen to him!” (Luke 9:35 ESV)
Listen to Jesus; God said so. As you develop a relationship with Jesus, God’s Spirit will begin to overshadow yours, changing your heart’s desire as it becomes aligned with God’s will. Beginning to accept the depth of God’s love for you softens your heart, not only towards others but yourself as well.
Love transforms.
The most powerful verb in the world has four letters: love. Beyond the feelings of love, the actions speak louder and last longer. Christ, dying on the cross, showed love in motion, the ripple effects of His actions continuing today as the next generation learns of the Savior.
God’s love will overwhelm your life. Moments orchestrated by God, always take your breath. When I met my husband on the tennis courts at Back Creek Park, my heart missed a beat. At that moment, our souls connected, creating a bond of three cords.
“And though a man might prevail against one who is alone, two will withstand him—a threefold cord is not quickly broken.” (Ecclesiastes 4:12 ESV)
Let the Holy Spirit overshadow yours. Live in the freedom of life with Christ, knowing His plan for you will bring everlasting peace. Allow Jesus to transform you into a person who loves God and others well.
[i] Strong, J., & Strong, J. (2010). The New Strong’s expanded exhaustive concordance of the Bible. Greek Dictionary of the New Testament (p. 99) Thomas Nelson
