Read Psalm 97:6-9. 6The heavens proclaim his righteousness, and all the peoples see his glory. 7All worshipers of images are put to shame, who make their boast in worthless idols; worship him, all you gods! 8Zion hears and is glad, and the daughters of Judah rejoice, because of your judgments, O Lord. 9For you, O Lord, are most high over all the earth; you are exalted far above all gods.
One day Jesus Christ alone will be worshiped. Every knee will bow and every tongue will confess. The question for us today is why not start worshiping him solely now. Today. Why not practice what you will do for eternity – worshiping Christ?!
But why Jesus? Why worship him alone? Because he is exalted far above all gods. John’s gospel equates Christ’s exaltation, his glory, his being lifted up above all others with his cross. Here’s what this means: Jesus alone is the thing you worship that would die for you. All other “gods” demand that you die for them. That you give up your life, your freedom, even your identity to them. Think about the lesser gods you worship and tell me if I’m wrong.
If you’re thinking right now “I don’t worship other gods, I only worship Jesus,” you are likely self-deceived. Ask yourself what controls me, and who or what am I controlling? No, we likely don’t worship as the pagans did. But we do worship like the New Testament Christians did, with add-ons to Jesus.
Galatians: Jesus + Law.
Colossians: Jesus + Asceticism.
Corinthians: Jesus + Spirituality.
Hebrews: Jesus + Angels, Moses, the Temple.
Philippians: Jesus + My agenda.
Romans: Jesus + My heritage.
All potentially good things that when trusted in along with Jesus actually steal joy and peace, and destroy fellowship with other believers.
To live is Christ is to constantly evaluate your worship. Not so that we can remove good things from our lives (the asceticism of the Colossians), but so that we can allow these good things to point to the best thing – the love of Christ for us and in us.
Prayer. Jesus, let nothing take your place in my heart. Help me to daily spot whatever add-ons are stealing my joy and peace and put them in their proper place by your grace. Amen.
To Live is Christ 