Emulate Jesus Christ -- Post 22: That Which Is of God Is Light.

By Judy Rix...

Recently, I found myself admiring a stunning Swarovski chandelier. This magnificent piece consists of hundreds of crystals, each manipulated by precise, multi - faceted cutting techniques. The crystals act as miniature prisms that produce all the colors of the rainbow.

All Crystal Is Glass, But Not All Glass Is Crystal.

Have you ever wondered why the affordable glass chandelier purchased at the local building supply store just doesn't glimmer like the pricier ones? I did. So I asked my good friend, Google. Here's what I found out:

"Crystal is a high - quality type of glass. It has a higher refractive index, meaning it bends light better than regular cut glass. Because crystal is softer and stronger, it can be cut by a master craftsman with finer, more intricate, and smoother designs. Conversely, cut glass often has sharper, more rigid edges."

Thank you Google.

Do People Resemble Crystals?

Admiring this chandelier brought to mind a metaphor comparing people to crystals.

• Similar to how an artisan works with crystal, God can mold us into finer, more intricate, and smoother designs, enhancing our refinement and brilliance. Through our humility and obedience, we become more adaptable in the hands of the Master Craftsman.

• The crystals do not radiate on their own. It is the sunlight from the windows, the ceiling lights, or the bright bulbs within the chandelier itself that make them glow. Just as crystals shine with a light source, the light of Heavenly Father enables His children to radiate in beautiful ways. "That which is of God is light; and he that receiveth light, and continueth in God, receiveth more light; and that light groweth brighter and brighter until the perfect day." (D&C 50:24)

• I was intrigued by how even the smallest shift of my head altered the colors of each crystal. That, too, seemed symbolic of people and of life. Some days we feel stronger, brighter, more energetic, or more hopeful. Other days we feel tired, worried, or weighed down by life’s burdens.

Crystals Are Beautiful Alone or When Clustered.

While each crystal is stunning on its own, they become even more magnificent when assembled as a cohesive group. Together, they emit a brighter light; their colors enhance one another.

Likewise, we each have varied gifts and talents. No matter how capable we may be alone, we can accomplish more as a team simply because of our combined expertise and experiences.

How Close Are You to the Light Source?

As we Emulate Jesus Christ, His light will illuminate our lives daily even if it seems like just a faint glimmer. During challenging times or when we feel tired, worried, or weighed down by life’s burdens, it's good to remember that God, the Master Craftsman, is perfecting and refining us into something far more exquisite than a crystal.

_____

Go to the Source -- What Do the Scriptures and Respected Teachers Say?

"I am the true light that lighteth every man that cometh into the world."

D&C 93:2

"Hold up your light that it may shine unto the world. Behold I am the light which ye shall hold up—that which ye have seen me do."

BOM, 3 Nephi 28:24

"Ye are the light of the world... Let your light so shine before men that they may see your good works and glorify your Father which is in heaven."

Bible, Matthew 5:14, 16