Many years ago, back in elementary school, one day our teacher entered the classroom looking stressed. With a somewhat military tone, she reminded us that we should come to school the next day in our best uniforms, neat and tidy, because the President of the Republic would be visiting. This was my first time seeing Costa Rica’s top political figure in person, and the whole school was buzzing with excitement.
The next day, around noon, we finally saw the unique figure of our President enter the assembly hall to great applause. I don’t remember exactly where I was sitting, but I know we were in the presence of someone important. Even in my innocence, I felt that his role carried weight and significance.
Being in the presence of someone great can be exciting, but when it comes to the Lord Jesus, I don’t want just His presence. I don’t want to be merely one of many in a Sunday crowd, watching from afar as He arrives, distant yet adored. It’s not enough to see Him escorted by angels and hope He might hear me through the clamor.
I want to sit at the same table with Him when the banquet is served. I want to be right next to Him when He starts sharing astonishing stories from eternity. I want to hear His voice directly, ask Him for advice about my dreams, ideas, and even my wildest thoughts.
When the gathering is over, I want us to leave together through the same door, heading to the same home—our home. I want to sit and talk freely, without the formality of liturgy, without fancy attire. I want to kick off my shoes, put on my comfiest, well-worn clothes, maybe even with a hole here or there. None of that matters because we’re at home, with no need to put on airs. Time doesn’t matter; it’s just Him and me.
In His presence, there’s fullness of joy, but at His right hand are even greater delights. There are indescribable treasures hidden in close intimacy with Him, in the sweet anticipation of His voice revealing secrets. There’s the safety of the Father’s embrace, the greatness and love of Christ’s open arms, and the boundless power, comfort, and wisdom of the Holy Spirit. Right there, in the trust of a gentle “Abba” whispered to His ear, is where I want to be.