How do we see Jesus? A man hanging on the cross? A pale-skinned, blue-eyed, pigeon-chested wise man?
He showed kindness to widows and the downtrodden, but is more than a social justice guru. He overturned tables in righteous anger, but is more than a reformer.
Christianity is often seen as rules, ethics and morals instead of a relationship with God through Jesus. When we focus on Jesus, we start to correctly prioritize our lives.
John describes Jesus in the book of Revelation in the Bible. His eyes are like blazing fire, His feet glowing, His voice like rushing waters. He holds stars in His hand and a sword comes out of His mouth.
John was Jesus’
best friend. Yet, when he sees the risen Christ, he falls down as though dead, because of His magnificence.
Too many have a poor picture of Jesus, who is celebrated only at Christmas and Easter.
When we meet the risen King, as He really is, suddenly the things that consume us – cars, houses, jobs, satellite TV etc are put in their right perspective.
Often we see Jesus from another’s perspective. When we meet Him ourselves, we are changed.
Then Jesus extends His hand to John, saying “Do not be afraid.”
Out of unfathomable strength, Jesus extends unfathomable grace.
Jesus said: “I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will live, even though he dies; and whoever lives and believes in me will never die.”
What Jesus do you have in your mind? What picture of the King do you have?
His voice could deafen me, His glory could blind me, His justice could destroy me.
Yet, He extends His hand and says “Do not be afraid.”
Brian Dean is a pastor with Lakeview Church in Quesnel.
