ENCOUNTERS OF THE GOD-KIND

by Pastor Gary Ritchie of One Way Ministries

I have been to the mountain top for the past few days. I cannot describe the beauty that I beheld day after day as God gave me wonderful views of his majesty and grace. I cannot describe the experience in human terms, although I may try. I truly can only describe it as the closest to Heaven I may ever experience in this life time.

After this weekend, I think I may understand more fully the passage of scripture that described Moses encounter with God himself.

Check out the passage:

Exodus 34: 29  When Moses came down Mount Sinai carrying the two stone tablets inscribed with the terms of the covenant, [a]  he wasn’t aware that his face had become radiant because he had spoken to the Lord.  30  So when Aaron and the people of Israel saw the radiance of Moses’ face, they were afraid to come near him. 31  But Moses called out to them and asked Aaron and all the leaders of the community to come over, and he talked with them.  32  Then all the people of Israel approached him, and Moses gave them all the instructions the Lord had given him on Mount Sinai.  33  When Moses finished speaking with them, he covered his face with a veil.  34  But whenever he went into the Tent of Meeting to speak with the Lord, he would remove the veil until he came out again. Then he would give the people whatever instructions the Lord had given him,  35  and the people of Israel would see the radiant glow of his face. So he would put the veil over his face until he returned to speak with the Lord.

Have you ever had an encounter with God that was so powerful it felt as it you were changed physically, emotionally, and spiritually? Such a powerful event that you felt truly whole in every way. I think I experienced just that thing in the last few days. I am not sure my face is glowing or I need a veil to cover my face, but I feel certain that my countenance is rather different.

I believe any time we encounter God is such a way, we will be changed. I feel as if I am oozing unconditional love and want to share it with the world. If I could, I would offer a hug to the world, and that includes you; for all of us are broken in some way, and need the comfort and strength of a holy God. It may described something like to old Coca Cola commercial: “I want to teach the world to sing, In perfect harmony.” Since I am God’s representative in this world, I get to be his hands and feet. Loving on people is what God does so it only makes sense that I would do the same.

I made a decision this weekend that I would not be so hard on myself and extend more grace for my brothers and sisters as well. I am commanded to just simply love! I think Jesus made it so simple to his sheep. He gave us this first and great commandment: To love God with all of our heart, mind, and soul, and love our neighbor as ourself. I am committing myself to practice the KISS principle – just Keep It Simple Saint.

Simple = LOVE.

As I was meditating upon this scripture this morning, I realized that Moses face was covered with a veil. In the Old Testament, no one could draw near to God or face death. Moses was the exception to the rule. Even the children of Israel could only go so far up the mountain. If they proceeded too far, they were in danger of losing their life. But on the cross, God himself came near. As Jesus was breathing his last breath, the veil of the Temple was torn in two. No more need for separation. God would draw near and we could experience his glory and majesty!

Today we are challenged to let our lights shine brightly for Jesus. The world needs a glow, a lit up face beaming with God’s glory. I invite each of you to help me spread some love today. I found through this weekend that it is contagious. Just pass it on! De Colores!

Please share Pastor Gary's blog if it speaks to you! For more information on One Way Ministries, visit www.onewaydamascus.org