He was still speaking when, behold, a bright cloud overshadowed them, and a voice from the cloud said, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased; listen to him.” (Mat 17:5 ESV)
God the Father says, “Listen to my beloved Son!”
Whose instructions and whose voice are we heeding? Today, working adults are pressurised to meet many goals by their directors and managers. They drown their frustrations by an evening out with friends or get away on a holiday or watch a movie. Monday comes, and the cycle of work life continues. Christians must learn to be still so as to listen to the Son of God.
Jesus’ instructions to His disciples remain valid in the 21st century. The King of kings, and the Lord of lords will come. He is the Master of the universe. He will judge the earth and inherit all the nations. He came as a humble servant. He was a servant of servants. Contrary to this world’s standards, rulers demand to be served. Yet our Lord Jesus came to serve. He sets for us an example to follow. He shows us how to lead.
“a bruised reed he will not break, and a faintly burning wick he will not quench; he will faithfully bring forth justice. He will not grow faint or be discouraged till he has established justice in the earth; and the coastlands wait for his law” (Isa 42:3-4)
Yes! He will return to reign, He will establish justice. He will rule with a rod of iron, that is, His will rule firmly and He will punish every wickedness. Seek first His Kingdom and His righteousness!
He is the King whom we must all serve even right now. We must listen to Him and serve Him by faith. Though we cannot see Him, we must love Him. We love Him by reading and obeying His written word. He loved us before we first loved Him.
Many of us have to grapple with the love for the things of this world – the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes and the pride of life. Do you have victory over them? (1 Jn 2:15-17)
Whenever you can, cease striving for a while, start reflecting. Go to a quiet place somewhere, with only your bible. That place of communing with God could be in your office when everyone has gone home. Those quiet moments of reading the bible could be at home when everyone is asleep. Ask the Lord, what am I doing? Am I doing the will of God? How prepared will I be when Jesus comes to take me to be with Him?
We need to hear God’s voice. Tomorrow, when you take a crowded MRT train or bus, look at people’s faces. Do you think people need the Lord Jesus? Then in your office, work as unto Jesus. Pray for the people around you, while you work. As you walk in the light of Jesus, and obey His voice, you will know that His Spirit lives in you and is with you. The Holy Spirit, the Comforter and your Teacher is there with you. He is always near you to instruct and teach you. Abide in the Holy Spirit and in the words of Jesus. Listen to the voice of God the Father.
Elder Yoong Yuen Soo