and from Jesus Christ, the faithful and trustworthy Witness, the Firstborn of the dead, and the ruler of the kings of the earth Revelation 1:5
During this Christmas season, the focus, rightly so, is on the amazing story of all the aspects of His birth. Reading about Mary’s encounter with the angel, Joseph’s dilemma, and their trip to Bethlehem is always encouraging and insightful. But, fortunately for our sakes, Jesus grew up. And He fulfilled His God-given plan, mission, and purpose. It is wonderful, but sobering, to ponder the move from the stable to the cross.
But take the time to focus your thoughts on who He is now. Read Revelation 1:5: and from Jesus Christ, the faithful and trustworthy Witness, the Firstborn of the dead, and the ruler of the kings of the earth. (Amplified Version). As I read this verse, I realized how I needed to really remember that not only is He faithful and trustworthy, but the ruler of the kings of the earth. John goes on to write: Now to the one who constantly loves us and has loosed us from our sins by His own blood, and to the one who has appointed us as a kingdom of priests to serve His God and Father, to whom be glory and dominion throughout the eternity of eternities! Amen! Revelation 1:6 TPT
He not only is our constant Savior, but He is giving us a job to do right now. Jesus is not only our friend and our Savior, but He is also our boss, teaching us how to do our priestly duty of helping others com. Does that change your perspective on serving Him? It should!
Revelation 2:13 describes our Savior: I saw someone like the son of man, wearing a full length robe with a golden sash over his chest,. His head and his hair were white like wool–white as glistening snow. And his eyes were like flames of fire! His feet were gleaming like bright metal, as though they were glowing in a fire, and his voice was like the roar of many rushing waters. In His right hand He held seven stars, and out of His mouth was a sharp double-edged sword. And His face was shining like the brightness of the blinding sun! This is our real Jesus! This powerful, mighty ruling one. It is a privilege and an honor to bow at His feet. To submit in obedience to His power and authority with humility. Even though I have the privilege of walking with Him as my friend, I need to put all arrogance and entitlement aside continually. He is not only is Lord, but He is THE Lord. John says, When I saw him, I fell down at his feet as good as dead, but He laid his right hand on me and I heard his reassuring voice saying: Don’t yield to fear, I am the beginning and the End, the Living One! I was dead, but now look I am alive forever and ever. And I hold the keys that unlock death and the unseen world. Revelation 2:17-18 TPT I believe when we truly understand the majesty and awesomeness of our Savior, knowing He is on our side fear will lose its grip on us. No matter how dark things become, we have the Light of the World on our side. Enjoy the stable and the story of His beginning on earth, but understand this is the real Jesus who will complete His story as well as ours.
Father, I ask that you open our eyes to understand who you really are. When we are tempted to give you more of an enhanced human version of ourselves, remind us of who you really are. Keep us in our place. It is a wonderful, loving place as your servant, where we can partner with you for Your Kingdom’s sake. In Jesus’ Name, amen.
Faith Encounters 