. . . . and raised us up with Him, and seated us with Him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus (Ephesians 2:6)
Beloved Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
On several occasions I have had the opportunity to attend a professional sporting event. There have been a couple NFL games, a Major League Baseball game or two, and several NBA games. Typically, I have gotten tickets in what is known as the ‘nosebleed section.’ I remember taking our sons to an NBA preseason game played down in Pensacola back in the early 1990’s. We had tickets on the very last row of the upper deck of the arena, just inches from the roof! The players looked like ants. No one really wants such seats, and as clear eyesight is more and more a thing of the past for me, I’d just rather watch the event on TV anyway.
But there is one great advantage to sitting high up like that. You can see everything going on. You can watch the plays as they develop. You can see the runner about to steal a base, the wide receiver breaking free from the coverage, or the fast-break that’s about to unfold down court. Yes, things do look smaller, but as far as getting the whole game in front of you, no seat affords the spectator such a strategic view as one way up in the nosebleed section!
This brings me to the inspired words of the Apostle Paul found in Ephesians 2:6. Here he declares that we who have trusted in Christ Jesus–the One who died for our sins, who was buried, raised on the third day, and was taken to heaven–have been “ seated” with Him in the heavens.
Now, this is a most remarkable and comforting thing to consider! As our Lord now sits on His throne ruling the universe and interceding constantly for us, we sit with Him! Below us is the ‘arena’ where history is unfolding according to His game plan. From this lofty perch, we see Him directing the course of world events, both big and small, according to His purposes and for His glory. We recognize that He is in full command! He is ‘calling the plays’! Nothing happens apart from His sovereign will. There are no surprises. There is nothing unplanned or unforeseen. There is no real danger for those who belong to Him, for He has guaranteed that everything that happens down on the ‘field’ will result in our good and the advancement and consummation of His Kingdom! And even when things appear to be hopelessly chaotic below, we know–and can ‘see’ with the eyes of faith–that His eternal plan is unfolding with perfection. And in all of this we take great comfort and joy!
So, with this in mind, it behooves us to discipline ourselves so that we look at the world from our seats above! The marvelous grace of God in Christ has provided not only our eternal salvation, but a completely new perspective on everything! From the safety of His presence, and in the security of His reign, we observe the world beneath us as our Lord brings about His purposes. This is why we rejoice always, are ever hopeful, have no fear, and can live each moment in the peace that only He can give!
So, let me encourage you on this Monday to remember where your seats are! And they are the best seats in the house!
I love you all so very much!!
Mike