I Stand in Awe of You!
The recorder of Revelation’s book was John, or as Jesus called him, the “beloved disciple.” John was an eyewitness to several of Jesus’ miracles, His death, and His ascension. Jesus also appointed John to take care of His mother, Mary. But in Revelation 1:9, John introduces himself not as “Disciple of the Year,” not as the “Favorite One,” or even “The Last Living Disciple,” but as brother and companion in suffering.
John was exiled to the island of Patmos when he says he was “in the Spirit,” which is referring to being conscious of the presence of the Holy Spirit, when he hears a loud voice behind him. It was Jesus Christ speaking. As far as we know, the apostle had not heard his Lord’s voice since Christ had returned to heaven more than sixty years before.
John tells us when he sees Jesus, “he falls at His feet as though dead.” The awe overwhelmed him. But was it because John was paralyzed with fear or with overwhelming love? Which posture is appropriate for a follower’s relationship with Jesus? The very next word John hears from Jesus is, “Do not be afraid.” In the Bible, this phrase, or a form of it, has appeared over 365 times, at least one for each day of the year. Thinking the Lord knew we would need this type of reminder daily. And this conclusion in Revelation should dispel our fears. We need not fear life, death, or eternity.
Isaiah (6:1) tells us he saw the Lord seated on a throne, high and exalted (lifted-up). Is this what is lacking from our devotion time or our worship time at church? Do we see the Lord in His glory? Are we in awe of Him so much that we fall at his feet?
My prayer for us is to remember and grasp what Jesus has done for us. I pray for our hearts to remain in a position to acknowledge His glory, and “the awe of Jesus” will be our filter for everything we think, say, and do.
Father God, you are the beginning and the end, the Alpha and Omega. You know our hearts, our afflictions. Thank you for going before us and the hope we have in You. Lord, let praise be on our lips, and amazement of You remain at the forefront of our minds. In Jesus’ name, Amen.