Good morning. It is Sunday, and I pray that you are prepared for that special joy which comes as we worship the Lord of Hosts.
I would like to draw attention to that beautiful description of worship, found in Hebrews 10:19-25. In this passage we are directed into the arms of God, able to draw close to the Almighty, into His glorious presence without fear, because of the work of Jesus on our behalf.
Therefore, brothers and sisters, since we have confidence to enter the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus,by a new and living way opened for us through the curtain, that is, his body,and since we have a great priest over the house of God, let us draw near to God with a sincere heart and with the full assurance that faith brings, having our hearts sprinkled to cleanse us from a guilty conscience and having our bodies washed with pure water. Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful. And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds,not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.
Jesus is with us in worship. He guards us and He constantly guides us into a more intimate relationship with the Father.
Drawing near to God with confidence is our joy. This is how mankind was created to be. In the garden, Adam and Eve enjoyed absolute intimacy with God, walking with Him in the cool of the evening, sharing thoughts and enjoying His love face to face.
Sin changed that. Sin broke us apart from God, making intimacy with Him too dangerous to contemplate. But Jesus has fixed all of that. Jesus has re-opened the door, removing the curtain of separation. Through the blood of Jesus, our hearts are sprinkled (purified) and our consciences cleansed.
Enjoy worship today, and do not hold back. Run to the arms of God without fear, for you are His and He loves you.
Vern