Psalm 119:49-72; Zech. 3:1-10; Rev. 4:1-8; Matt. 24:45-51
I love this passage. It represents the scene of judgment before the throne of God so well that satan stands as accuser and he tells the truth about Joshua, he is dressed in filthy garments. Satan doesn’t have to lie about us to God, our sins speak for themselves, there is no denying them. The prosecution has the simplest job in this picture but the problem is that an innocent man has already taken the punishment for our sins, willingly. Because of Jesus’ willing sacrifice on behalf of those who believe and put their trust in Him, we are given clean garments and pronounced innocent in spite of the truth. The prerogative for sentencing lies completely in the hands of the judge. That is true of us today, we live in that truth. Like Joshua, we are a sign. What does your sign say to those around you?
What is the best way to prepare for the coming of the Lord? Obedience to His commands and attention to the duties we have been given, both individually and corporately. Seems simple doesn’t it? A friend, however, posted something this morning on Facebook that reminds me that we aren’t good at working without supervision. Her mother, a member of my congregation, told her "When I was in school and the teacher wasn't feeling well, that's when the spit balls started flying." We were given the Holy Spirit to accompany us as the presence of Christ with us always but we can easily ignore that which is not tangible and visible. We need to rely on Him to show us how filthy are our garments and to help us keep them from becoming even more soiled by sin.
The revelation proper begins. John is taken up to the throne of God and what a magnificent and awe-inspiring sight it is. Its beauty is nearly unimaginable to us, the colors dazzling. The elders, the twelve tribes and the twelve apostles (who is the 12th?) seated around the main throne and the living creatures giving glory to the one who sits on the throne. All day and night these creatures never cease to say, "Holy, holy, holy, is the Lord God Almighty, who was and is and is to come!" This is the one we serve, this is the one who has chosen us, loved us and died for us. We are to give Him glory in all things. Can we stand in His presence? Awe is important for us in worship and service.
O come, Thou Day-spring, come and cheer
Our spirits by Thine advent here;
Disperse the gloomy clouds of night,
And death’s dark shadows put to flight.
Rejoice! Rejoice!
Emmanuel shall come to thee, O Israel.
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