Of all the images of God that we have as humans, I imagine this one to be the one we will see in heaven.
It’s hard to say what images of God await us in heaven. For instance, Jesus has already exhibited His great love for us, and yet we have images like this one of a high and Holy Being that lives in “inapproachable light”.
What are some other images of God that we have stored away? The image of God’s back as He appeared to Moses on the mountain, a baby in a manger, a child in the temple, a young rabbi teaching and preaching,…a broken body on a cross, a gleaming body rising up to heaven… all images fall short of who and what God really is. Revelation 4 simply gives us yet another image to add to our understanding. John was shown this particular image to encourage the church. As they were being hunted and persecuted, the reminder that God is all powerful and always in control would give them new resolve to follow His commands. This powerful image of Jesus being worshipped in heaven would do just that.
Personally, as I read these words and imagine who Jesus was before He came to earth and what He surrendered so He could become human, I am filled with awe and love. Any sacrifice I could ever make seems small in comparison. Joy and thanksgiving overflow my heart as I consider the Author of life becoming human for the purpose of paying for sins He had never committed.
As you read this description today, allow the magnificence of it become imprinted on your mind. One day we will see this same sight in person. For now, the imagination that God gave us will have to suffice.
Be encouraged! God is still in control.
PR