16 Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.
Many Jesus-followers enter God’s presence with trepidation, unsure if they are accepted. Because they view their acceptance before God from their own perspective, they feel they are not worthy to enter. This may very well be true, that we don’t deserve a hearing with the Creator of the Universe, and yet that is exactly what we do have because of Jesus. Since our entrance into God’s presence is never based on our own ability to please God, it must be based on something else. If we were responsible for securing our ‘season ticket’ to heaven, the place would be devoid of human inhabitants. But the ‘corporate
headquarters’ (Jesus is the body‘s head) purchased tickets for everyone to attend. He paid the full price for full admission. Everything is included, including the food (the marriage supper of the Lamb). So if we have accepted this free gift of admission, why would we be hesitant to enter in? We are invited to enter with confidence, boldness. From God’s perspective there is no longer any reason for us to be ashamed. What once separated us has been eliminated. All the barriers have been removed. But we get more than entrance. We are invited to receive mercy, not getting what we do deserve, but finding grace instead. We get what we don’t deserve. When I am in need I don’t want someone to point out my weaknesses, I need someone to do something on my behalf to help. I need action! That is exactly what we are invited to enter God’s presence to receive. Since there are no more barriers, the windows of heaven are open to pour out into our lives that which will benefit us most: God’s grace. Are you in need today? Run into God’s presence. There is mercy and grace to meet whatever need you have.
The Arnold Journey 