Radiance

First Reading: Ex 34:29-35
Psalm: Ps 99:5-7, 9 -- Holy is the Lord our God
Gospel: Jn 11:19-27 or Lk 10:38-42
Memorial of Saint Martha

Whenever Moses entered the presence of the LORD to converse with him, he removed the veil until he came out again. On coming out, he would tell the children of Israel all that had been commanded.
Then the children of Israel would see that the skin of Moses’ face was radiant; so he would again put the veil over his face until he went in to converse with the LORD. - Exodus 34:34-35

Friends,

Have you ever seen someone that looks so happy that they look like they are "glowing"? It's a frequent thing to hear at weddings and at the birth of a new baby. When people are in a state of joy, they seem to radiate that happiness to the world in an almost luminous way.

Today's reading gives us a glimpse of what happens as we come near to God. When Moses goes up the mountain to speak with the Lord, he is changed in appearance. This change is so dramatic that he needs to cover his face in order to not dazzle the eyes of his brother and the elders. They are not speaking of a metaphorical change, but an actual, physical change that comes about from being in the presence of the Lord.

In our own experiences, we know of people that, as they get closer to the Lord, are changed. They begin to act differently in relation to others, are more patient, more generous and more forgiving. Such people are more likely to be happy or have a jovial attitude. The wonder of these changes is that they are not only apparent to those that believe; even those who do not believe in Christ or God will note these changes and remark that they are for the better. Let us do all that we can to draw near the Lord and to Christ, not only for our own joy, but that through that closeness, our appearance might be a witness to our brothers and sisters who are still at a distance.

Then the righteous will shine like the sun in the Kingdom of their Father. - Matthew 13:43

Heavenly Father, we thank you and praise you for the gift of this day. Thank you for the marvels of your hand, that all creation shines as it draws near to you. Lord, as we continue on our journey, help us to draw near to you. Let your word transform us, as it transformed Moses and guide us, that we might shine with your love and be a strong witness to the world. We ask these things in the name of Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen.