Read Revelation 1:13–18, John's depiction of Jesus, as revealed to him there. What is his reaction, and why would he react that way? How is the Cross presented here?

John is awe struck by the majesty of Jesus and falls at His feet as if he were dead. When John was confronted by the presence of Jesus all he could was worship. The very presence of Jesus commands us to acknowledge Him as God through our worship. John describes Jesus as being dead at one point, in this description we see the cross. The cross is depicted as the instrument of death which Jesus conquered when He resurrected from the dead.

Read Job 42:1–6. How does Job's reaction compare with John's?

Job and John were both in adverse situations, but John was encountering God on a little more friendlier terms. Job questioned God, and when God cross-examined Job then Job repented of his behavior. Despite the reasons for their encounters of God both were humbled by the presence and majesty of God.

How should our worship services elicit in us a similar reaction? That is, shouldn't we be given a sense of the presence of God, which should humble us? At the same time, how crucial that the Cross be lifted up before us as our only hope of salvation.

Our worship services should inspire in us awe for God, through the liturgy and through the preaching of the word. What Jesus has done for us on the cross is what gives us hope for salvation. As we worship we must remember to lift up Jesus and what He has done for us.

Prayer:  Father teach us to stand in awe of you teach us how to worship you. Thank you for what you have done for us on the cross, in Jesus name amen.