Chaplain's Chat

Jesus Is Our Reference Image | Transformation Takes Time

During a recent chaplaincy session, I was watercolour painting with a student. As we talked, I was looking for a reference picture to copy and paint. In that moment, I was reminded of something beautiful:

Jesus is our ultimate reference image.

As Christians, we look to Jesus to learn what it means to live, love and treat others like Him. This is what Paul is speaking of in 2 Corinthians 3:16-18 NLT:

“Whenever someone turns to the Lord, the veil is taken away. For the Lord is the Spirit, and wherever the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. So all of us who have had that veil removed can see and reflect the glory of the Lord. And the Lord—who is the Spirit—makes us more and more like him as we are changed into his glorious image.”

So, what does Paul mean by the veil?

A veil in this context covers something and makes it harder to see clearly. Paul uses this picture to describe how, through Jesus, the veil is removed and we can see and understand God more clearly. But Paul doesn't stop there. He says that the Holy Spirit makes us more and more like Jesus.

This is where I perceive the watercolour picture to be so beautiful. We don't create a detailed painting in one brushstroke. With each brushstroke we add a little colour here and there, then another layer, then more detail. Slowly and over time, the picture develops.

Our journey with Jesus can be like that too. We don't become fully like Jesus overnight. As we spend time getting to know Him, the Holy Spirit works in us, layer by layer, helping us reflect more of who He is.

We turn towards Jesus.

The veil is removed.

We see Him more clearly.

The Holy Spirit changes us.

And, over time, we become more like Jesus.

Transformation takes time, one beautiful layer at a time.

Reflection: How is the Holy Spirit helping you become more like Jesus?

As chaplains, our hearts are to see every student, staff member and family member supported, cared for and encouraged. If you're human, you're someone we care about! Wherever you are on your faith journey, you are welcome.

We know that the pressures of life can sometimes make things feel a little blurred.

If you or someone you know would appreciate prayer or simply someone to talk to, please let us know. We would be happy to listen, pray with you and walk alongside you in whatever season you may be in.