Dear HLPC family,
This past Sunday as we concluded a Summer sermon series on John 17, we looked at Jesus’ prayer and these words from verse 24: Father, I desire that they also, whom you have given me, may be with me where I am, to see my glory that you have given me because you loved me before the foundation of the world. (ESV)
I’ve been enjoying reading the book Spiritual-Mindedness by John Owen which is published by Banner of Truth. Owen was a 17th century Puritan pastor who comes highly commended by Sinclair Ferguson. Owen writes these words that I found helpful on laying hold of the glory of our Lord Jesus:
“We must meditate on [Christ’s] mediatorial office at the right hand of God. We must meditate on the glory of his present work in the church because he is the minister of the sanctuary and true tabernacle which God has set up and not man. We must meditate on the love, power, and effectiveness of his intercession whereby which he accomplishes the salvation of his church. We must meditate on his glorious coming to judgment.”
I think Owen helps us in grasping the glory of the Lord Jesus Christ by giving serious thought and contemplation to the work of Jesus on behalf of his people.. We live in an age of great distraction. I’m one of the worst of constantly checking my phone for emails and texts. We all need more time and effort to fix our spiritual gaze on Jesus and His glory.
Your Pastor,
Paul