“When Moses came down from Mount Sinai, with the two tablets of the testimony in his hand as he came down from the mountain, Moses did not know that the skin of his face shone because he had been talking with God.” – Exodus 34:29
After spending time in God’s presence, Moses’ face glowed with the reflected glory of God. This shining was terrifying to the Israelites because even this fading reflection of God’s awesome presence and holiness reminded them of their profound unholiness as fallen human beings. The people of Israel were afraid of the presence of God, always seeking to keep it at a distance. To calm their nerves, Moses would wear a veil over his face whenever he was around others. He would, however, remove the veil whenever he met with God.
As Christians, we no longer need, or have, a separation between us and God. Jesus removed the need for a veil on the cross. When we trust in Jesus as our Savior, our sins are forgiven, we’re made new creation, and God’s Spirit begins to live within us. We’re able to enjoy God’s presence rather than fear it. And yet, we often still shy away from God’s presence. 2 Corinthians 3:18 describes the freedom we have to look on God’s glory with unveiled faces. In Christ, we’re able to enjoy God’s presence rather than fear it. And yet, we’re often still afraid to really spend time in God’s presence. Are you?
As Christians, we can distract ourselves with good works and religious activities to avoid the discipline (and joy) of stilling ourselves before God, asking to experience His presence, and truly worshipping Him without a veil. Do you actively desire and seek God’s presence? In prayer and worship? In silence and solitude? Don’t shy away from God – seek more of Him. He will reward all who seek Him by revealing Himself in ways large and small. Don’t fear God’s presence and don’t live a veiled life. #FollowJesus