“Out of reverence for Christ…” (Eph. 5:21)
Lord Jesus, talk about being wrong—my first experience of the word “reverence” in association with you was closer to “rigor mortis” than a true revering of you. But true reverence is all about astonishment, amazement, and adoration—not being polite, quiet, and tippy-toeing around you. You call us to lift our hands in your presence (Ps.63:3-4), not fold them—to come to your throne of grace shamelessly and boldly (Heb.4:16), not with hesitation and fear.
The Gospel put an end to any uncertainly about what you think of us. You love us as much as our heavenly Father loves you. Hallelujah! Indeed, you occupy a throne of grace, not a throne of judgment.
So Jesus, free us to worship and cherish you. Your perfect love drives out all fear, and your Spirit pours in great love. Fear has to do with judgment and punishment—and, hallelujah, you exhausted both for us on the cross. Keep turning our dread into delight, and our unbelief into uninhibited love for you and others.
Free us to enjoy you, Jesus. Our chief end in life is to “glorify and enjoy you forever.” So no matter how spiritually disciplined we are and careful we are to avoid sin, if we’re not enjoying you, we’re not really honoring you the way you intend. You pray for our joy; show us the ways we resist this prayer.
Like the Apostle Paul, we want to know you better and better (Phil.3:10)—not fall into heartless familiarity or the chilling of our affection for you. There is so much more of your truth, goodness, and beauty for us to know and experience. Keep us grateful, thirsty, hungry, and expectant. Thank you Jesus, and So Very Amen.
