The Veils of This Age

Scripture: And even if our gospel is veiled, it is veiled to those who are perishing. The god of this age has blinded the minds of unbelievers, so that they cannot see the light of the gospel that displays the glory of Christ, who is the image of God. 2 Corinthians 4:3-4

Observation: In discussing the Gospel with the Corinthians, Paul states that the good news is spoken clearly by himself and others. However, he also acknowledges that some don't get it, that there are many people who don't understand or reject the message of salvation. Here, he gives an explanation that rings true through the millennia ... Satan has shrouded the minds of many so that they cannot see goodness - the light - and thus are blind to Jesus.

This is consistent with teachings of Jesus. Jesus taught that many who hear the good news would not respond to it, and he outlined the earthly concepts that Satan uses to shroud their minds. These include riches, hardships, busyness, family, past hurts, lust, and comfort. Some of these sound good, some of these sound bad, but all of them are "gods of this age" - and every age - that distract where people are looking for hope.

Application: Right now, people around me every day are looking for hope in ... cancer cures, alcohol, mental treatment, resolution of family issues, marriage crisis, illicit relationships, career advancement, new houses. Again, some of these sound good, and some of them are desperately bad. All of them create a veil that prevents attention to Jesus as a source of hope and love.

My only hope for helping others is to guide their vision despite these circumstances. I can meet them in their circumstances and display compassion, but I cannot really "fix" anything. I cannot cure cancer. I cannot personally repair a violent home life. I cannot cure a child's drug addiction. I cannot reprioritize a person's life. However, Jesus can do all of that. My responsibility is to present that good news and attempt to lift the veils I see all around. I am to "set forth the truth plainly" and nothing more, yet nothing less.

Prayer: Lord, today I ask for your boldness in presenting you and your good news to those around me this day and every day. I wish to be your light. Please give me your words in a manner that speaks truth to others, in the context they will hear and see, and in manner that raises veils to display your glory. Amen.