“Your eyes will behold the king (Jesus) in his beauty.” Isa. 33:17
Lord Jesus, Isaiah’s promise summarizes the deepest longing in our hearts. Though we sabotage, repackage, and squander our Jesus-shaped yearnings in a myriad of ways, it is you we desire and crave, more than anything or anyone else. For you made us in your image, redeemed us for your glory, and delight in us beyond all calculation.
Hasten the Day we will see you as you are, Jesus—the Day of no more knowing you in part, loving you in part, or being like you in part. Everything we call “beautiful” is a mere hint, quiet whisper, and vague shadow of your quintessential loveliness. The Apostle Paul chose the perfect word to describe what we will feel when we experience the fullness of your unfiltered splendor and dazzling beauty, and that word is marvel. Eternal life will include many riches, joys, and delights, but none greater than the privilege of marveling at you, Jesus. We will finally love you as you deserve. We will finally believe you love us as much as you say you do, Jesus.
But well before that Day, we want to behold more of your kingly splendor right now—meaning today, the rest of summer 2024, and beyond. For, Jesus, you are the Monarch of mercy—the Sovereign of salvation, “the ruler of the kings of the earth” (Rev.1:5), and of everything else. You have numbered our days, bottle our tears, and carry our burdens. Hallelujah! Nothing compares to the excellency of knowing you (Phil.3:8), and being known by you (Gal.4:9), King Jesus. So Very Amen