Juxtapose
(I just like that word.)
juxtapose jux·ta·pose
verb : to place (different things) side by side (as to compare them or contrast them or to create an interesting effect)
I'm in awe when I juxtapose attributes of God.
His majesty and His mercy
His greatness and His grace
His power and His peace
The combination of the awesomeness of God with His extravagant love is the beauty of our hope.
He is amazing, yet approachable.
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The story of Esther teaches so much about God's sovereignty.
The story line is full of intricate details.
God rescued an entire nation through a masterpiece of timing.
As the threat to the Jews unfolds, Mordecai tells Esther she must go to the king.
She is in a position of influence, but there is one big problem: royal law prohibits her from approaching the king. A person can only see the king by invitation.
The penalty for unrequested visits = death. (unless the king decides he doesn't mind.)
So, Esther faces the great dilemma of her calling:
Should she risk her life for the chance to save her people?
With the reality of this fate, she sends word for everyone to fast and pray with her for three days.
If God had called her to this mission, she knew she needed divine help.
We hold our breath and wait to see if she will live after presuming to come into the presence of the king. We are thankful at the outcome and shocked when he invites her to, not only speak, but make a request.
She can ask anything - of the king.
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Now flip-reverse - and juxtapose this. . .
At the threat and risk of her mission, she immediately went to prayer.
She went to the King of all kings - without hesitation.
She humbled herself before the Almighty King and asked for help.
She didn't fear death.
She knew where to go.
She knew she could ask.
Wow.
She had to fear the uncertainty of an earthly king,
but could trust the consistency of her Heavenly King.
How much time do we waste with shaky knees and sweaty palms going to people?
And yet, we miss the beauty of grace that lifts us straight to the throne room of God.
We shudder and stammer under status and wealth, but misplace our reverence for the LORD.
The King of all kings welcomes us with open arms.
How awesome is this privilege!
And Esther didn't even have the depth and intimacy that Christ has made available for us now.
God invites us.
Open door.
Ask anything.
Speak your heart.
You are His child, heir to the King.
We get to experience the eternal hope and joy of
a King who loves.
Deuteronomy 10:14
I prayed to the LORD my God and confessed: "Lord, the great and awesome God, who keeps his covenant of love with those who love him and keep his commandments,"
Job 37:22
Out of the north he comes in golden splendor; God comes in awesome majesty.
Psalm 89:7
In the council of the holy ones God is greatly feared; he is more awesome than all who surround him.
2 Chronicles 7:14
If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land.
Jeremiah 29:11
Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you.
1 John 5:14
This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us.
Psalm 17:6
I call on you, my God, for you will answer me; turn your ear to me and hear my prayer.
Matthew 7:7
Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.
Matthew 7:11
If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him!
Hebrews 4:14
Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has ascended into heaven, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to the faith we profess.
Psalm 66:5
Come and see what God has done, his awesome deeds for humankind!
Psalm 68:35
You, God, are awesome in your sanctuary; the God of Israel gives power and strength to his people. Praise be to God!
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