I was taking a leisurely walk through the woods recently and came upon a large patch of bright, yellow wildflowers.

The sun was getting high in the sky and, being the photo-obsessed person that I am, I couldn’t help but stop to capture a few artistic images of this beautiful scene.

As I kneeled and crouched here and there to get the perfect pictures, I noticed something unique about the flowers – they all seemed to be reaching for the sunshine.

Their stems were stretched in unison towards the light; their faces almost smiling as they basked in the rays of the sun’s brilliance.

Their carefree example spoke to my heart and reminded me again of my one true calling in this life – I was created to reach for the Son.

A truth so simple yet so overlooked sometimes when it comes to daily victory in my faith walk.

No matter the worry, care, or frustration, my primary responsibility is (and always will be) to look to Jesus.

Because it’s there, soaking in His presence, that I find peace.

It’s there, gazing on His glory, that I find strength.

And it’s there, basking in His warmth and light, that I am changed more into His likeness.

Psalm 34:5 says it this way, “Those who look to Him are radiant…” (HCSB)

To be radiant is to shine brightly or to send out light. And, isn’t that God’s purpose for us as His image-bearers?

“Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” (Matthew 5:16 KJV)

As much as we may try, we will never achieve radiance through human determination, gritting of our teeth, or any amount of willpower.

It simply requires sitting in the glorious presence of the Son – face tilted upwards; our whole being reaching for Heaven.

Like the beautiful flowers in the field.

“Keep your face always toward the sunshine – and shadows will fall behind you.” (Walt Whitman)

Until next time, Grace and Glory!