More Than Skin Deep

 

Moses did not know

that the skin of his face

         shone

because he had been

   talking with God.

           Exodus 34. 29

(Spending time in God's Word

   and praying with Him

changes everything about us.

We may not think it matters,

but the upheaval

    is a lot more than skin deep.

Those around us observe

     the visible and invisible,

in what we do, say,

  whether we respond or react,

in our attitudes, appearance,

      and character.

Our complexion may not shine,

   but our hearts certainly can.)

O LORD,

As we spend time with You,

delving into Your Word

   and praying through

   the details of our day,

soften our hearts

     and change our minds,

  even in difficult situations

  and among stubborn people,

     of which we are too.

May we bring

    Your holy name to this place

and carry in our hands and hearts

        a compassionate disposition.

Radiate through us

    with Your love in dark places, 

slogging through miry bogs,

and climbing the tough ascents.

May Your Presence in us

   alter the trajectory

   of our work

       and relationships.