Lesson from a Sunflower

2 Corinthians 3:18 (NIV)

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.

We tried this year to plant Sunflowers in our garden because they are such a beautiful flower. One of the things that I love about them is that they look like a miniature sun. 

Sunflowers are one of the only flowers that always face the sun. Throughout the day the flower turns with the sun, soaking in the sunshine until the last rays sink into the west, then they slowly turn back towards the east so that they don't miss even one ray of the precious light at sunrise. Is it possible that one of the reasons they resemble the sun is that looking at the sun has become their primary goal in life?

As I think about the Sunflower and how they grow it makes me think about what we can learn from them. Imagine How our existence would be if our whole purpose in life became to soak in the grace of God's Son, to reflect His spender to others around us! People would notice that we were different. People would begin to wonder why!

Remember Peter and John? It was clear to anyone that they had been with Jesus. Their whole countenance reflected their relationship with their Maker. It couldn't be hidden! "When they saw the courage of Peter and John and realized that they were unschooled, ordinary men, they were astonished and they took note that these men had been with Jesus." Acts 4:13.

The same was true for Moses: "When he came out and told the Israelites what he had been commanded, they saw that his face was radiant." Ex 34:34-35

We cannot hide a relationship with God. It is noticeable to anyone, because it makes you stand out, because you begin to reflect the glory of our Maker. We are told to: "Be imitators of God, therefore, as dearly loved children and live a life of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for Let me encourage you to pursue this endeavor, and to persevere in soaking in and cherishing your relationship with your Forever friend. When you do, it will become noticeable to those around you. Only by putting your relationship with Him as your utmost priority will your countenance start to reflect His grace.

Dear Lord, thank you for the Sunflower. Help us use their example to live our live so that we may reflect Your love. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.