DO NOT WEEP. BEHOLD, THE LION

The situation seemed hopeless.

No one could be found. No one.

No one who could do the one thing that needed to be done. The one thing that would set things in motion…that would set all things right.

So he wept.

And wept.

But then…

Someone said to him the simple but powerful words that would change everything. The good news that would dry up his tears and make him rejoice. The powerful proclamation that said it all.

“Do not weep. Behold, the Lion…”

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As we approach 2022, I keep going back to this scene described in Revelation chapter 5.

All of heaven is waiting to read God’s will. To see what He has in store for the end of the ages. To see His will carried out. But no one is worthy to open the scroll. A scroll that is held tightly closed with God’s seals. And it brings John to tears.

But then…

John is reminded of a profound truth that I want to remember in the coming year, and always.

If a situation looks grim. If I feel defeated. If all hope seems lost. If I am tempted to despair.

I don’t have to weep, or worry, or wonder.

This simple reminder tells me: Don’t look at the situation. Don’t focus on the trials. Don’t fix my eyes on anything else. No matter what is going on in the world around me…

“Do not weep. Behold, the Lion.”

The quote continues, describing Jesus further. But these first six words form a phrase that has pierced my heart. It’s this simple instruction that I want to keep in my mind in every moment.

When I feel like weeping, I can look to the Lion…for answers…for comfort…for encouragement…for hope.

The Lion, who has triumphed. The Lion, who is worthy. The Lion, who takes away the sin of the world. The Lion, who loves me. The Lion, who is always with me.

I can always look to the Lion. He has everything I need. He is everything I need.

He’s right there.

He’s right here.

I just need to behold Him.

And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.

Hebrews 12:2

Lord, as I enter a new year, I don’t know what’s in store. But you do. Please keep my gaze fixed firmly on you.

“Behold, the Lion.”