Acts 7:55-56. “But he, being full of the Holy Ghost, looked up steadfastly into heaven, and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing on the right hand of God, and said, ‘Behold, I see the heavens opened, and the Son of Man standing on the right hand of God.’”
THREE GREAT SIGHTS. The sight of God’s glory impressed greatly the man, As he fell to the stones on that day. For Stephen, the martyr, like Abraham before, Knew God Almighty in a personal way. God had appeared to Abraham in the past, As he began living his life for the Lord. Incentive for living by faith he received, And he showed it by trusting God’s Word.
Moses one day was off in the desert alone, No one else was around but the sheep. His life was half over and he had settled quite down, After all the past turbulence – peace. Then the angel of God appeared to him in the bush, As it burned with holy fire so bright. He was reminded again of his leadership role, He was to lead God’s people out of spiritual night.
Then Stephen, the deacon, one who had God’s work to do, As he recounted their history to them; Reminded them all that their God they had failed; They were condemned but didn’t want to face sin. God had appeared in the past to Abraham their father, And appeared again to the greatest leader they knew. The same God was here, in their presence again, But the call to repent they eschewed.
Stephen didn’t hold back in defense, but spoke out, As he pointed out the truth of God’s plan. He passed by the temple as the truth of worship he taught, And pointed out all the failures of those men. But in spite of the failures and world events, Be assured that God is still in control. God will some day make right all the things that are wrong, Just make sure all is well with your soul.
And as Stephen then spoke with a vision of God, And the Son of God standing there by His side;
He raised his voice high and in words clear and strong, He interceded for them and then honorably died. The lesson for me as I sit here today, Is to remember that God is well aware; Of all that is happening and that needs to be done, Before we can fully God’s glory then share.
When first I began this journey with God, I didn’t know what was ahead. But the sight of the Savior was enough to make me Want to please the One who died in my stead. In the middle of life and now on toward the last, I still want to please Him and enjoy Him each day; And tell others, like Stephen, and all those who serve; In spite of what might happen, “Jesus lives and saves.”
“The sight by faith of the Savior taking my place, has not dimmed, Father. O Lord my Savior: allow me as I live from day to day, to view the great sights of Thyself. Whether it is in the backward view of Thy cross-work; the present view of Thy intercession; or the coming view of Thy glory – my eyes are unto Thee my God. Amen.”