When life gets overwhelming, especially when we drift away; how do we respond to Jesus’ invitation to come back? Please receive today’s Holy Nougat
“Let us therefore approach the throne of grace with boldness, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.”Hebrews 4:16 NRSV
For many of us, boldness and approaching God’s throne don’t normally fall in the same sentence in a positive way. Especially having read the seriousness with which God’s presence (and the representation thereof) was treated in the days of Jewish formation. We perhaps think of Uzzah, the man who died for touching the Ark of the Covenant; and, remembering the stern warnings to avoid calling God’s name in vain, have deduced that God is truly remote and untouchable, unreachable and unconcerned with our daily realities.
As indicated yesterday – nothing could be further from the truth. In fact, the Nougats you receive from me will have (hopefully) painted a very realistic picture of God WITH Us, Journeying with us all through our life experiences, who is disappointed when we falter; and more importantly, ready to restore us to life and wholeness.
The writer to the Hebrews knows that the people faced their own inner struggles, and that the enemy of our souls would harass us about the mess we’ve made in our decisions. Thus, the writer reminds us that IN God, we can find Rest. This is the literal Rest, as we allow God to take charge and guide us through the rough patch; as well as the rest that comes permanently as Good and Faithful servants of God. And, I would add that we can also REST – Rely, Embrace, Seek Sustenance and Tarry – in God’s presence. This is especially necessary when we make a mistake in our spiritual lives. As we consider resting in God’s Sabbath Embrace, we also ought to consider the One who makes this possible – Jesus Christ – who’s provided direct and unfiltered access to God’s Throne. Because of His work, we do not have to worry about our worthiness to approach the Throne of Grace. His Blood and the Resurrection Power that comes with Him, makes it feasible. That’s what Grace is about – unlimited, uncommon access to God’s Forgiveness and thus God’s Mercy when of our own selves, we do not deserve it.So what are we waiting for; let us confidently (but reverently) seek God’s face in the strength of Jesus’ debt write-off knowing that we WILL be heard, and our need supplied (especially if it is forgiveness or Grace). Hallelujah! Jesus makes it possible.
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May all we seek be found in Christ
