Smile :)
The LORD lift up His countenance upon you, And give you peace. Numbers 6:26
I was at a work conference yesterday when I noticed a passerby smiling from afar, when we passed by each other I could see his genuine and generous smile.The warm smile of a stranger struck me, and I felt like I had received a big gift. His smile was contagious, and I smiled more often and exuded positive vibes throughout the day.
I totally agree with the statement "Smiles are the best gifts we can give to others". Giving our SMILE is an act of love that lights up the world. Smiles can brighten someone's day and it's contagious just like my example earlier. Furthermore, studies have shown that smiling releases feel-good hormones such as endorphins and serotonin, making it like a natural remedy for improving our overall health. Plus, we don't have to spend a lot of money on beauty treatments and anti-aging. A smile can make us look younger and more attractive, and it's entirely free.
Most importantly, our smiles reflect God's face. In the Message version, "lift up His countenance" is translated as "God smile on you and gift you." This verse portrays a gracious father smiling and taking pleasure in his children. God's countenance is an emoji of a smiley face :) It represents God's graciousness and full acceptance of us. Especially the word "lift up" refers to God having removed all our sins and the separation between God and His people. In lifting up the veil, Jesus allows us to be close to God and see His face shining upon us.
With God's smile upon us we can smile authentically from our hearts. “A merry heart makes a cheerful countenance.” Proverbs 15:13 A smile is an expression of inward feelings, so people can tell the difference between a genuine one and a fake one. What makes us smile despite tough circumstances and hardship? It is because God accepts us and smiles at us.
Do not be stingy with our smile because our smile is powerful to bring God's face to the world. Let's "lift up" our face muscles and SMILE!
Blessing prayer: May the Lord bless us and keep us, the Lord make His face shine on you and be gracious to us, the Lord lift up His countenance upon us, and give us peace :) In Jesus' name, Amen.
