Standing Room Only

When Moynihan Train Hall opened on January 1, 2021, New York City commuters were wowed by the architecture, spaciousness and cleanliness of the $1.4 billion state-of-the-art building. But weary travellers were soon less than impressed by its lack of seating. The main concourse of the hall contains no chairs or benches, forcing patrons waiting for delayed trains to stand, lean against walls or even sit on the floor.

Another building known for its lack of seating is the Temple (or the temporary tent Tabernacle) where the Israelites worshipped. If you study the design for the furniture of this Jewish house of worship in Exodus, the choice of each piece is loaded with meaning and significance. But one item of furniture that is purposefully absent in the Tabernacle is a chair. Its lack of a seat is just as significant as the presence of the other pieces. Moynihan Train Hall deliberately chose to forego seating for security reasons. But why did God, the architect of the temple, opt to leave out seating accommodations?

The writer of Hebrews 10:11 offers insight into why the priests always stood. Sitting down would imply that their job was done and it never was. Their continual offering of animal sacrifices for human sin effort was inadequate. It was never enough. In verse 12 the author contrasts the insufficient work of the priests with the supreme work of our Great High Priest, Jesus Christ. That is why on the cross Jesus victoriously declared the words, “It is finished.” His one and done sacrifice totally exceeded the requirements to turn away the wrath of God for sin. And with that fait accompli, Christ sat down.

This is great news for fatigued followers of our Savior. Hebrews also tells us that there is “rest for the people of God”. We can completely quit all our striving, trying to earn God’s favor or attempting to work our own way to Heaven. The death of Jesus Christ on the cross accomplished it all. He completed the mission he was sent to do, that’s why he can be seated at God’s right hand. And because he is resting, we can too.

It is finished! Pick a seat. Pull up a chair. Put up your feet. And park yourself on the finished work of Christ.

Lord Jesus, thank you for your sacrificial death on the cross. Thank you that once and for all you satisfied the judgement of God and your blood sufficiently eradicated sin. Help me to cease from all efforts to try to appease God’s righteousness by human merit. May I find my rest in you alone.

Throughout this day: Every time you see a chair or take a seat physically, reflect on the reason behind Christ’s place seated beside his Father and refresh your soul with the spiritual rest he offers you.