“redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of His grace which He made to abound toward us in all wisdom and understanding.”
Ephesians 1:8
The Apostle Paul beheld the Lamb of God. Not only did this occur in a mighty encounter on the road to Damascus, but this beholding was a regular part of his life. When you meet Jesus, when you see even a glimpse of who He is, you are changed forever. It is a question that we as Christians must ask ourselves - have you met the King? And once you meet Him, do you then spend your days beholding Him?
There are many in the culture of Christianity who have interacted with the concept of Jesus Christ, have heard the stories of Jesus Christ, and yet - have never met the Man, Jesus Christ. Oh, to behold the Lamb of God! Life makes sense in His Presence. Awaken, Saints!
When we behold Him, it gives us the revelation of our “redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of His grace which He made to abound toward us in all wisdom and understanding.” (Ephesians 1:8) As we better understand this revelation, it increases our desire to behold Him where we meet with His mercy and grace. “This grace He determined before the beginning of time, but has now been revealed through the appearing of our Savior, Jesus Christ.” (2 Timothy 1:9-10) Grace, undeserved favor, is a gift that we will spend the rest of our lives trying to understand. It is the cheer from the throne room, it is the wind in our sails, it is the fuel in our engine, it is the bridge over troubled waters, it is our avenue of salvation, it is the kindness of God!
Paul was able to prevail because he beheld. He was able to rejoice in his sufferings because he understood that his “God had made him alive together with Christ, and raised them up together, and made them sit together in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus.” (Ephesians 2:5-6) This is real. This is not concept or vain spiritual language, but heavenly reality. We need to sit and ponder this - all of us - think on these things, Saints! The reality of the kindness of God, the grace of God - to send His only begotten Son, to hang on a cross - to take the burden of our sins upon Himself in exchange for His righteousness. Who is this King of glory? The Lord strong and mighty! There is no one like our God! Glory to the King!
Let me encourage you to take the time this holiday season to be more intentional about gazing upon Jesus. What does this look like? Set aside time to literally sit somewhere quiet. Open your mouth and ask, “Jesus, | want to see You. Help me fix my gaze upon You. Bring Your Word to life in my heart.” Then wait. Wait upon the Lord. He will speak. When He speaks, it draws you in to behold. Behold! The Lamb of God that takes away the sins of the world!
