Face to Face

Now we see but a poor reflection, as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known. --1st Corinthians 13:12

I'm still in a state of delighted shock after having met one of my favorite authors. I'm not talking about merely spotting him from across the room either--I sat face to face with him at a small table. Two other women and I sat there together, soaking up his creative knowledge and expertise. I had the opportunity to ask him questions about the writing process, in particular the development of his book, Oxygen, a science fiction novel that I read and re-read quite regularly.

What impacted me the most about my lunch meeting with Randall Ingermanson was not the thrill of being in the presence of someone possessing incredible writing prowess, but the realization that behind each paragraph of fiction I enjoy so much... is a regular person. Now that I have been given a personal glimpse of his character and personality, I will more than likely view his novels in a different light.

The same is true of how God's word impacts me. Although I will not get to see God face to face until I am with Him in heaven, I can still know Him personally. As I spend more time reading the Bible, talking with Him in prayer, and experiencing the joy of fellowship at church, I learn more about God's character. In particular, I learn about His love for me.

Behind every inspired paragraph of the Bible is God. Every aspect of His character is delineated in one place or another as He has revealed Himself to His creation. His faithfulness is recorded in the promises that He has made and kept to His people--the greatest fulfillment of which is in the appearance of Christ, the Messiah.

The Bible is not just a collection of stories. It offers us a way to see God's face in a limited way. When I think about how God's Word is a reflection, I am humbled that He allows me to see Him at all. The power of God, the fullness of His love, His sovereign, holy character will one day be unobscured by my limited worldview. Even the things I think I know about Him now will pale in comparison to the reality of standing face to face in His presence. To be known fully by the God of the universe and to know Him just as completely--that day will most certainly be indescribable.