How big is your Jesus?

Whenever you think of Jesus, how do you picture him? Do you think of his cross or empty tomb? Do you speak of the manger? Do you consider his teachings and miracles? Do you think on what he is doing now?

What is the most important part of Jesus ministry? At Easter time, we think about the significance of Jesus death on the cross and resurrection from the grave. It is true that this was the highpoint of Jesus ministry, it was the very reason why he came. Yet, the danger is we reduce all the other events to support acts, before or after, the main event. We can take them or leave them. They are not that significant. Nothing could be further from the truth. We need 'the whole Christ.' Every moment is significant. Every event has meaning for us today.

We are coming towards the end of the New City Catechism, and the focus, for the next 3 questions returns to Jesus.

Q49. Where is Christ now?A. Christ rose bodily from the grave on the third day after his death and is seated at the right hand of the Father, ruling his kingdom and interceding for us, until he returns to judge and renew the whole world.

Some points to note:

Jesus is seated in heaven. It is true to say, Jesus work is done. It is complete. His sacrifice has been accepted in the true temple. Unlike any other priest, he is able to sit down and say I don't have to offer another sacrifice. I have made the perfect sacrifice and it has been accepted.

Jesus continues to work in heaven. He is seated on a throne. And from that throne he rules over his kingdom. He oversees his kingdom's advance. He protects his people. He brings about the downfall of Satan. Isn't it good to know that he hasn't given up control? The King still reigns. And he intercedes for his people. As we continue to sin, he bears witness to the perfect sacrifice he has made and our sins are forgiven. We are cleansed. As Satan accuses us before God, Jesus say - he, she, is one of mine. I have dealt with their sin. 'Before the throne of God above, I have a strong a perfect plea, a great high priest whose name is love, who ever lives and pleads for me.'

Jesus shall return from heaven. And in that moment he shall judge everyone. He shall clean up all the mess sin has made of this world. He shall banish death. He shall give us a new, pain free, virus immune body. He shall make all things new.

So in one sense Jesus has done his work; in another he is continuing to work; and in yet another sense, he has work still to do as one day he shall return and make all things new.

Don't settle for anything less than the whole Christ.