Rev.1:13,14 – I saw one like a son of man, clothed in a robe reaching to the feet, and wrapped around the chest with a golden sash. His head and His hair were white like white wool, like snow; and His eyes were like a flame of fire.
John was the last man standing, all of the other apostles were gone by the time John met Jesus on the Isle of Patmos, even the late arriver, Paul, was now gone. John was probably ninety years old living in some sort of labor camp possibly, sleeping on the ground; not the best accommodations for an old man. When Jesus appeared to John apparently there was renewal all through his being, he was being charged with one last task to do before he was able to go and be with the Lord forever. What was that task? He was to write the book of Revelation, unveiling God’s final plans for this age.
As we see in the scripture passage I quoted, Jesus appeared in full glory, literally knocking John off of his feet. John saw Jesus as the Son of Man yet at the same time John was looking squarely at the ancient of days. Here is how John Piper describes this scene.
“the one with power over the nations and with everlasting dominion and glory. He is the great high priest that has put away the sins of his people once and for all. He is as aged and wise and mature as the great white-crowned Ancient of Days, yet with eyes that are aflame with the fire of youth and energy and hope and exhilaration for his unstoppable plans for you and for this church and for the world.
Gaze upon Jesus and let his royal power and his priestly forgiveness and his ancient wisdom and his fiery hope fill you with confidence afresh that [in the past] has not been
in vain, and that [in the future] will be the appointed brush-stroke on the canvas of your life and on the canvas of history till the great mosaic of God’s work is done. (“Look at Jesus”)
So, do not fear time. He is the First and the Last.
Do not fear life. It is He who is alive forevermore.
Do not fear dying. He holds the keys to the grave and death.”
So I agree with John Piper here, look at Jesus. Go ahead in the study of God’s word, in your private prayer, and especially in worship look at Jesus in His glory. You will experience renewal of youthful vigor as you behold the Ancient of Days. You may find a new task even if you have been on the sidelines for awhile. If this ninety year old man could be fired up again, maybe we can find some Holy Spirit fire ourselves.
