The Saviour’s Gaze
Beloved, how do you react when convicted by sin? Everyone alive today makes mistakes and falls short of my Glory. Sin leads to separation and shame. However, the impact is far greater when you hide your face from me and delay confessing it. Often the enemy lies in those times, telling you I will not forgive. This is heartbreaking, as the truth is I came to bring you healing, restoration, and breakthrough!
Consider Zacchaeus, a hated tax collector and thief. Physically height challenged, he could not see me. Socially challenged, no one would help him reach me. Yet rather than hide, he chose to arise! Climbing a tree, he positioned himself to meet my gaze. The moment our eyes met, I called him by name into his God-given identity, for Zaccheaus in Hebrew means ‘Pure, Innocent’. Although the crowd muttered ‘sinner’, the act of Zacchaeus inviting me into his life that day, caused the focus to change from his behaviour to the redemption of his Saviour. Consequently, breakthrough came, not only to Zacchaeus, but his family and an entire community!
So Today, Dear One, do not be afraid to bring your sin and struggles to me. Do not wait! Instead, position yourself to meet my gaze!
Activation: Take a moment to rest with Holy Spirit. Ask Him to bring to mind any areas of struggle or sin you need to repent of. Then close your eyes and ask Him to help you meet Jesus’ gaze, the One who is slow to anger and abounding in love, who never grows weary and whose understanding no one can fathom. When you feel ready, spend time with Jesus in repentance. Then rest in His presence as he forgives you, allowing His love to wash over you.
Luke 19: 5 (NIV)
When Jesus reached the spot, he looked up and said to him, “Zacchaeus, come down immediately. I must stay at your house today.” So he came down at once and welcomed him gladly.
1 John 1:9 (NIV)
If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.
Isaiah 1:18a (NIV)
“Come now, let us settle the matter,” says the Lord. “Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow.”
