John 5:25. “Verily, verily, I say unto you, The hour is coming and now is, when the dead shall hear the voice of the Son of God: and they that hear shall live.
THIS HOUR: the resurrection power of the cross. There is noise everywhere in the world where people congregate Much of it is for pleasure-seekers, seeking jaded appetites to slake. Amidst all the sounds of industry, of travel and even war - There are those in quiet meditation who are anxiously seeking more.
The noise is when the souls of men are seeking some relief - And so, their body is used as a tool, but their spirit is lifeless in unbelief. Behind all this activity another Spirit waits patiently to bring A new birth and new life that can with them joyful praises sing.
The hour is here; the Spirit moves a believer to kneel and pray -
Another rises early reading the Bible; learning what to say To a loved one, a child perhaps, a neighbor or a friend you know - And the Holy Spirit begins to work, the way of salvation to show.
The stirring of a dissatisfied soul after a long night spent in pleasure - Makes one dead in trespasses and sins to stop and take the measure Of all they have to show for a life used up in pleasure and fun - And they begin to wonder what will I have that is real when all of this life is done.
The Spirit moves the pray-er and the reader to direct Their attention to the dissatisfied one – not a searcher yet. But soon the pray-er's efforts make the dissatisfied one to seek - And the Holy Spirit moves the reader and the searcher to meet.
The Word of God is read: an explanation is given and life begins to stir. Sin and guilt bring the seeker to stop; repentance is not far. Light begins to dawn where the darkness of sin once reigned - And the seeker turns 180 degrees facing what the Word of God made plain.
Now the Spirit moves the searcher to really hear the voice of God. The words of the Bible make plain the sin-cleansing power of Jesus' blood. The searcher's ears are opened, then the mind is opened and the mouth is opened too - As the light of life brings a spiritual resurrection, and the meaning of the cross breaks through.
Now the searcher has finally found, real life begins at the cross. The blood of Jesus has paid sin's price and washes away the world's dross. “What is it?”- that is its’ name; This mysterious white from heaven that comes in the dark From the Father; angels know. Round and sweet; at first it looks insignificant. Then on closer inspection – perfect in shape; The color is pure and seen in the dark morning. No corners, no hidden spots able to cast shadows. Impossible to have a blemish or a spot.
“What time is it?” – in the predawn darkness. Men are silent and helpless in sleep. Black wilderness distantly lit by heavenly fire. People wondering about the next meal Toss in sleep as provision falls. The first light shows whitely, As it reflects heavenly food with heavenly light. As a new creation in Christ, a whole new life begins at that hour of resurrection. The Holy Spirit, the pray-er and reader too, all work together to bring searcher salvation.
“Father, Rhyl is on my heart again this morning. If she was really saved in the summer, and the Holy Spirit is in her, help her to come clear in testimony and testimony and confession. For this day – I pray there will be much of Thee about the gathering of these few younger couples that will build their faith in Thee and confidence in the calling they have received. In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, Amen.”