We need to see Jesus

I was telling a friend about the movie where a woman was very skiddish about getting married. But a man talked her into it. At the wedding as long as her eyes were locked with his she was able to make her way down the aisle, albeit haltingly, nervously. But just before her hand was in his hand so that he could make sure she couldn't get away, a big laundry truck drove past in front of the church making enough noise for her to glance away. Suddenly all of her fears returned as she dashed out of the church.

I likened that scenario to the science of sanctification. Unless we look at Jesus, unless we see Jesus, we cannot obey God or do His will or keep His Law, etc. We get scared and run. It certainly isn’t a laughing matter. Until we do keep the Law and perfectly reproduce the character of Jesus, the heavenly sanctuary can’t be cleansed and Jesus can’t come to take His people back to His Father's house. And what does our disobedience do to Jesus? It crucifies him afresh.

After I told Anthony my object lesson, he told me his.

In Hawaii where the temperature stays about 85 f, everyone wears shirts and shorts for everything. Except for going to jury duty. But, when Athony was there he knew a man, nicknamed Tuxedo Terry. Every day wherever he went he wore a tuxedo and carried a briefcase. He looked like he was going to do business every time he was seen. But he really wasn’t going anywhere any time. Then why was he always dressed up?

It's because he was getting married years ago, but his bride-to-be didn’t come to the wedding. He must have been so damaged by that that he is scarred for life. He is coherent. He will hold a conversation with you. But, other than that he behaves like damaged goods.

Anthony then told me that Jesus must be dressed and ready for the marriage when His wife, the church has made herself ready. But until then he is crucified afresh, and that daily.

Anthony’s object lesson was much better than mine because it was serious. There is nothing comical about looking to Jesus. It must take place. Looking at Jesus there is comfort and joy. It is so true, that “in thy presence is fulness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore.” (Psa. 16:11).

We need to see Jesus. “This is the will of Him that sent Me, that every one which seeth the Son, and believeth on Him, may have everlasting life.” (John 6:40).

This was the secret of David’s success.

I will bless the LORD, who hath given me counsel: my reins also instruct me in the night seasons. 

I have set the LORD always before me: because He is at my right hand, I shall not be moved. 

Therefore my heart is glad, and my glory rejoiceth: my flesh also shall rest in hope. 

For Thou wilt not leave my soul in hell; neither wilt Thou suffer thine Holy One to see corruption. 

Thou wilt shew me the path of life: in Thy presence is fulness of joy; at Thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore. (Psa 16:7-11)