I was reading this week about how God’s covenant with the people of Israel was centered on the promise of His presence. Old Testament scholar, John Walton writes, “God’s purpose in making the covenant was to initiate a relationship that would eventually lead to the reestablishment of his presence on earth after humanity had lost access to his presence in Genesis 3” (Wisdom for Faithful Reading: Principles and Practices for Old Testament Interpretation).
On the other side of the cross, we now know that Jesus comes and fulfils all things (with a theological richness we could spend lifetimes mining), opening up access to God’s “throne of grace” through Jesus’ one perfect and monumental sacrifice.
“Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.” Hebrews 4:16 (ESV)
That sacrifice opened a new hope–of access to God both now AND eternally. In our temporal, often pain-filled bodies in this frustrating, sin-sick world–God has entered in and is on the move. AND there is hope for eternity too–of new bodies and a new and creation, where God’s reign will be perfected.
I love Helen Howarth Lemmel’s hymn, “Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus”:
O soul, are you weary and troubled?
No light in the darkness you see?
There’s light for a look at the Savior,
And life more abundant and free!Refrain:
Turn your eyes upon Jesus,
Look full in His wonderful face,
And the things of earth will grow strangely dim,
In the light of His glory and grace.Thro’ death into life everlasting,
He passed, and we follow Him there;
O’er us sin no more hath dominion–
For more than conqu’rors we are!His Word shall not fail you–He promised;
Believe Him, and all will be well:
Then go to a world that is dying,
His perfect salvation to tell!
I am disappointed and discouraged by many things here and now–in the church, in the political arena, and in my own failings. Sin–within and without–can be deceiving . It can take our eyes off of the beauty of Jesus and the reality of His presence.
“See to it, brothers and sisters, that none of you has a sinful, unbelieving heart that turns away from the living God. But encourage one another daily, as long as it is called “Today,” so that none of you may be hardened by sin’s deceitfulness.” Hebrews 3:12-13
Can you imagine, in the middle of your weariness and troubles, stopping to look into the face of Jesus, the wisest, kindest, calmest, bravest, strongest person you know? Can you imagine Jesus talking you through, calming you, bearing your burdens, guiding you, sustaining you?
God has big plans for a world that is good and just and right. But let’s not forget that His Kingdom, “on earth as it is in heaven,” encompasses everything. Every second of your day, every thought, every emotion. He is with you!
I hope you enjoy this new coloring page and find encouragement in the face of Jesus.
You can download your page HERE or by clicking on the image below. The flowers pictured are Black-eyed Susans and Forget-me-nots.
COPYRIGHT/USAGE: All writing, artwork and photos are copyright Marydean Draws. Please do not repost or resell on another website. I’m happy for you to use my coloring pages and other printables for home, school, and ministry. If you share content, please link back to the original post. Thank you!
Hello, i read your blog from time to time and i own a similar one and i was just wondering if you get a lot
of spam feedback? If so how do you reduce it, any plugin or anything you can advise?
I get so much lately it’s driving me insane so any support is
very much appreciated.
Here is my web-site – Dogs Coloring Pages
Hi Erin! Yes, I get quite a bit of spam, too. I have comments set to be posted only when approved by me. I don’t use any plugins. It’s definitely annoying! Hope you can figure out a solution. Mary 🙂