THE WHO OF WORSHIP
And I saw a mighty angel proclaiming in a loud voice, “Who is worthy to break the seals and open the scroll?” But no one in heaven or on earth or under the earth could open the scroll or even look inside it. I wept and wept because no one was found who was worthy to open the scroll or look inside. Then one of the elders said to me, “Do not weep! See, the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, has triumphed. He is able to open the scroll and its seven seals.”
Revelation 5:2-5 (NIV)
The object of worship is God Himself.
Oswald Chambers
Two images stand out to me from today’s Scripture. A scroll and a lion. Most scholars agree that the scroll with seven seals represents the culmination of history. It contains God’s plan for judgment, redemption and restoration. The fact that no one is found worthy to open the scroll emphasizes the brokenness of humanity and the need for a divine solution. We need someone who is able (worthy) to open the scroll and reveal where this whole thing is headed. The imagery of the Lion of the tribe of Judah (Genesis 49:9) and Root of David (Isaiah 11:1; Jeremiah 23:5) links Jesus as the Messiah, the One for whom the Jews had been longing for generations. The Lion conveys authority, power, and kingship; the Root of David emphasizes the fulfillment of God’s promises. Notice the beautiful description of the Lion, he has triumphed!
This makes me think of heroes from some of my favorite movies. Maximus in Gladiator. William Wallace in Braveheart. King Arthur in First Knight. Indiana Jones, Superman, Robin Hood… the list goes on and on! These were conquerors that drew honor and praise from the characters in the movie, as well as millions of viewers.
But today, let’s remember that Jesus is the only One truly worthy of praise. He is the Who of Worship.
APPLICATION: Draw a picture of a lion. It’s OK if it’s not that great… you’re not trying to win a contest. Look at your picture throughout the day to remind you that Jesus deserves the greatest affection of your heart.
PRAYER: God, there are so many things fighting for my attention. I give my heart to things of this world, to comfort and control. But You are the One my heart truly longs for and the only One worthy of worship. Free my heart from the things that pull me away from You so I can worship You more continually. Amen.
“… Our Father in heaven…” Matthew 6:9b (NLT)
- What do You want to say to me today as my Father?
“… may Your name be kept holy.” Matthew 6:9c (NLT)
- What do You want to reveal to me about Your power today?
“May Your Kingdom come soon.” Matthew 6:10a (NLT)
- Help me make Your priorities my priorities today.
“Give us today the food we need,” Matthew 6:11 (NLT)
- Is there anything specific You want me to do with my time or the people I’m around today?
“and forgive us our sins, as we have forgiven those who sin against us” Matthew 6:12 (NLT)
- Reveal to me anyone I need to forgive or ask for forgiveness.
“And don’t let us yield to temptation…” Matthew 6:13a (NLT)
- Is there anywhere I’m vulnerable to temptation?