August 25, 2004

THE KING OF GLORY

"Lift up your heads, O you gates! And be lifted up, you everlasting doors! And the King of glory shall come in" (Psalm 24:7, NKJV).

Straight from the glory psalm comes another regal title of the Son of God. Here He is majestically portrayed as the "King of glory." The words of this title are part of the antiphonal anthem that formed a portion of the high ritual of the temple.

This royal title was fittingly applied to Jesus at His ascension. When Jesus' earthly mission was accomplished, all heaven turned out to celebrate the return of their triumphant and beloved Commander. On the memorable day of His ascension, Christ was given a red-carpet welcome befitting the Redeemer-King.

His completed work on Calvary had guaranteed the success of the plan of redemption forever. He had resolved once and for all the destiny of the human race. Satan was utterly defeated (see Hebrews 2:14, 15). Sin, death, and the grave were vanquished (see 1 Corinthians 15:54-57), and the character of God was fully vindicated. This marvelous accomplishment entitled Jesus to the highest honor.

Under inspiration, Ellen G. White paints this scene of the reception of the King of Glory: "All heaven was waiting the hour of triumph when Jesus should ascend to his Father. Angels came to receive the King of glory, and to escort him triumphantly to heaven... All the heavenly host surrounded the Son of God, their majestic commander, and with the deepest adoration bowed, casting their glittering crowns at his feet. And then they touched their golden harps, and in sweet, melodious strains, filled all heaven with their rich music and songs to the Lamb who was slain, yet lives again in majesty and glory"--Spiritual Gifts, vol. 1, pp. 77, 78.

My Prayer Today: Lord, I, too, join the angelic hosts in hailing You as the King of glory! Amen.