Feb 10 - Hebrews 4:16

Let us therefore approach

the throne of grace with boldness,

so that we may receive mercy

and find grace to help in time of need.

Hebrews 4:16

Do you remember the story of Dorothy and the Tin Man? Do you remember how the Cowardly Lion jumped, screamed, and fled the first time they encountered "The Wizard of Oz"?

What changed the second time they met the Wizard and Toto pulled back the curtain?

They discovered that the great and powerful wizard was just an ordinary human being. Now even the cowardly lion could approaching him with a measure of boldness.

God has pulled back the veil.

On the one hand, he is holy and mighty. Infinitely more powerful than wizards in Oz.

But God is also gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love. He sent Jesus as his living picture of his love and approachability. Yes, we ought to fear him (in terms of honor), but he tells us that we need not fear him (in terms of terror).

Indeed, scripture invites us to approach him with boldness.

Why? Because he sits on a throne that is named "grace."

In Christ's Love,

a guy who gets

as rusty as the tin man

when he comprehends

God's grace