Yesterday we were talking about how Jesus has not left us alone. He Himself is with us by the Holy Spirit. But we asked the question: Why didn't God make a video of Jesus so we could play it and watch it? Wouldn't that help us feel like Jesus is near to us? Wouldn't that make it easier for us not to feel alone?
Many people for thousands of years have thought so, and that is why they have made images. A video of Jesus and an image of Jesus are really the same thing--just a difference in the sophistication of the technology. Those who feel they must have an image of Jesus or of the Virgin Mary or of Peter or someone else, are using it, or reverencing it, as a substitute for the real thing. Thus it actually becomes a hindrance to experiencing a genuine nearness. It is idolatry; and that is the sin of paganism.
Jesus said to the woman at Samaria, in John 4:23, 24: "The hour is coming, and now is, when the true worshippers will worship the Father in spirit and in truth; for the Father is seeking such to worship Him. God is Spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth." That does away with all images or physical attempts to make Jesus seem near. You will be free to enjoy the nearness of Christ when you believe His word. It is so, not because you feel it or you see it or you handle it, but because He says it.
From the "Dial Daily Bread" Archive: 1994 Phone Message.Copyright © 2010 by Robert J. Wieland.
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