“It is from a place of intimacy that Christ’s glory and power is revealed.”
Thoughts from daily Bible reading for today – October 28, 2021
He said to them, “Where is your faith?” And they were afraid, and they marveled, saying to one another, “Who then is this, that he commands even winds and water, and they obey him?” Luke 8:25, ESV
“Who is this?” These three words shaped the majority of the apostle’s life with Christ, continually having their vision and understanding of his identity and mission expanded and reframed before their very eyes. As soon as they thought they’d understood him, a new series of events continued to press them deeper in their knowledge of Jesus, and required them to receive him as he was revealed.
Before the events in the boat during the storm, these men surely wouldn’t have listed “Lord of Nature” as one of his many attributes. Though clearly a powerful and gifted teacher and healer, no human being is able to speak and still a storm, or so they thought. The longer they journeyed with Jesus, the more their understanding of him grew. His revelation of power and authority led them into a place of wonder, and it is meant to do the same for you and for me.
Do you find yourself regularly in awe of Jesus Christ? Don’t rush past this question. You may respect Jesus, and even revere him, but are you close enough to have him leave you speechless, marveling at the mystery of his power and presence? Note this important fact: the crowds were not close enough to Jesus to see his power displayed as he stilled the storms.
If the question “who is this?” rarely emerges in your heart and mind, I propose that it may be because you live more like a member of the crowd than like an intimate apostle. Members of the crowd are intrigued by Jesus, but can easily dismiss him and move along to other interests and pursuits. A disciple, however, is intimately known and connected to Jesus, and it is from that place of intimacy that his glory and power is revealed. This was true for the men on the boat centuries ago, and it is true for us today. If you want to know Jesus as he reveals himself to be, not simply as we imagine him to be, we must be close to him, following him as faithful servants who listen for the voice of their master.
Prayer
Father, keep us from reductionistic views of your son, Jesus. Instead, keep us close to him that we may continually have our hearts and minds expanded by his power and glory. Amen.
Application
Is your life with Christ one of distant respect or is it defined by intimate relationship and daily obedience?
Related Reading
John 8:12; Colossians 2:9-10; 1 John 3:1-2
Worship Resource
Jon Guerra: What is Your Name?
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