A Near King

As someone who has never lived under the reign of an actual king, I am left to imagine what it would be like. History offers an unending supply of kings to study — both good and bad — none of whom I’ve ever known personally. About Jesus, the King of Kings, there aren’t enough words to capture his beauty, to speak of his magnificence, to articulate his justice or to proclaim his power and goodness. The adjectives fail to adequately describe this king.

I find that I can get so caught up in trying to describe Jesus that I miss him altogether. 

I don’t work nearly as hard to describe the other intimate relationships in my life. Instead they are marked by the way my spirits lift when I pick my kids up from school or feel a reassuring touch from my wife. They are defined by nearness. I forget that Jesus isn’t some far-off king buried in the annals of history. He is not cold or indifferent, but he too is near. As I try in vain to somehow capture the fullness of this king, the words of Helen Lemmel’s hymn echo in my heart:

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

Jesus is the King. All are invited to come and look full at his wonderful face and experience the deep joy of being known and loved. 

Heavenly Father, thank you that you are near and you love me. You are the king I want to know, serve and love — teach my heart to seek you each day.

Throughout This Day: Watch today for reminders of God’s presence and care in your life. When challenges or disappointments come, recall that he has promised to be with you. When you have moments of joy, thank him while knowing that he loves to share these moments with you.