01-Jun-2024 – Hear Him

Published by Sunil Binkam on June 1, 2024June 1, 2024

“A voice came out of the cloud, saying, ‘This is my beloved Son: hear him.’” – Mark 9:7

This month’s theme is, “hear him (Jesus)”. These words, spoken by the heavenly Father to the disciples on the Mount of Transfiguration, are crucial for us today. Interestingly, the heavenly Father also commanded the Israelites to hear Him. In Exodus 23:20-21, we read:

“Behold, I send an Angel before thee, to keep thee in the way, and to bring thee into the place which I have prepared. Beware of him, and obey his voice, provoke him not; for he will not pardon your transgressions: for my name is in him.”

At first glance, this passage seems to refer to an angel. However, a careful study reveals deeper insights. The Hebrew word for angel, “malaak(ch)”, means a messenger or representative.

Characteristics of This Angel

1. He Demands Respect and Obedience: “Beware of him… He will not pardon your transgressions.” This angel demands honour and respect, acting as a judge. Similarly, in His second coming, Jesus will judge the world. John 5:22 says, “For the Father judgeth no man, but hath committed all judgment unto the Son.”
2. He Bears God’s Name: “My name is in him.” This angel possesses the power, authority, and characteristics of God. Jesus said, “I am in the Father and the Father in me” (John 14:11).
3. He Requires Obedience for Protection: “But if thou shalt indeed obey his voice, and do all that I speak – Exodus 23:22.” God promised to protect the Israelites if they obeyed this angel. Jesus said, “All things are delivered to me of my Father” (Luke 10:22).
4. He Leads and Guides: “For mine Angel shall go before thee, and bring thee – Exodus 23:23.” The angel leads the Israelites to conquer the promised land, making a way for them. Jesus said, “I am the way” (John 14:6).

Revelation in Jesus Christ

Hebrews 1:5-8 emphasizes the unique position of Jesus:

“For unto which of the angels said he at any time, Thou art my Son, this day have I begotten thee? And again, I will be to him a Father, and he shall be to me a Son? But unto the Son he saith, Thy throne, O God, is for ever and ever: a sceptre of righteousness is the sceptre of thy kingdom.”

The Israelites lacked the revelation of Jesus Christ, but today we have received it by God’s grace. God commands us to hear and obey Jesus. He has entrusted our spirits to Jesus, who will not lose even one of them. To live a triumphant life, we must listen to and obey Him.

Prayer

Dear loving heavenly Father, thank you for your love and grace. Thank you for teaching us today about the important aspect of our faithful life here on this earth. Thank you for revealing to us the glory of your Son, Jesus Christ. Help us to hear Him, fear Him, and obey Him. I pray in the name of my Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, Amen!