Stephen had a great face. He had angelic shine. It was inescapably noticeable -- attractive, selfless, strong and true, bold and sure, settled and secure. He looked like a winner.

Some people have a similar look. On their faces are written words like “Yes!” or “This can be done!” Confidence frames them. Grit and resolve color them. Truth and grace mark them. They are full of love and light. What attractive, inspiring faces to behold!

God gives people looks like this. Those faces rally folk. They make people believe, hope, dream. It comes best when we, like Stephen, are consumed by Christ.

When there is no dominant Jesus-life within, a person’s face turns. It avoids hard looks in the mirror. It shrinks back as if allergic to light that comes its way. Lines of fear appear. Insecurity breaks out.

The “disease of me” always sucks the life out of us. There is no cosmetic cover up.

Reflect: What kind of face do you bear in life, do you bring to others? Are you, like Stephen, getting enough sustained looks at Jesus?

God in Christ truly gives us the look of a winner. Behold Him. Reflect Him today.

A prayer to consider: LORD, set my face like flint on You. Shine on me and let me reflect Your grace, goodness and winning ways to all who look my way. Amen.