Rise and Shine

When our children were at home I would often awaken them by singing, “Rise and Shine and Give God the Glory!” We even had actions that went with it, although it was often hard to get them to join in first thing in the morning. LOL

Isaiah 60:1 reads:  “Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the LORD rises upon you.

How has “rising and shining” been going for you? It’s hard to arise shining in the middle of January. It’s dark and cold, and here in our part of the world most days are covered with clouds. Literally, not figuratively. I would prefer to pull the covers up over my head and let someone else go out and do the shining!

The truth is we are only able to rise and shine because God’s glory has been given to us through the love of Jesus. Let’s look at a few more verses that talk about “shining:”

 But everything the light shines on can be seen. Light makes everything clear. That is why it is said, “Wake up, sleeper. Rise from the dead. Then Christ will shine on you.” Ephesians 5:13-14 (NIRV)

In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven. Matthew 5:16 (NIV)

“The LORD bless you and keep you; the LORD make His face shine on you and be gracious to you; the LORD turn his face toward you and give you peace.”’ Numbers 6:24-26 (NIV)

May we each be blessed with the precious presence of Jesus, the Way, the Truth, the Life, and the Light. May we “rise
and shine to glorify our Father in heaven.” Even on these dark, cold, and cloudy January days the blessing of God’s love and forgiveness is a good reason to get up, get going, and shine!