at his footstool

Isn't it wonderful when something as simple as a couple of words or a short sentence speaks immeasurably more than we ever thought? For example, John 11:35 is merely two words. I memorized it as a kid only because it was short and could be us for quick (and humorous) Sunday School answers. Being older, I see how the two words reveal a great deal about our God's ability to sympathize with us when we struggle through the pains and trials of this life. Knowing our God is one who wept, gives us comfort when we weep.

Today God saw fit for me to read Psalm 99. It's a short Psalm about His glory on earth throughout history. Verse five especially stood out; "...worship at his footstool!"

Christ reconciled us to the Father. We know walk in union with Him as children. This doesn't mean we are equal or walking the same plane. I tend to lose sight of this.

I treat worship (both public and private) as a concert venue. God is on stage solely for the view. He would stand on the floor, but then everyone would not be able to see Him well. The stage is perfectly set up so people can stand on the floor or sit in the seats and not miss Him.

The reality is God isn't even in the arena. Stadium seating does not exist as we are all standing on the floor. God isn't merely above us so we can see Him better. He is above us because He is holy (which comes right after the phrase above), and we are not. We are at His footstool because that's exactly where we belong. He is our Father and friend, but He is not our equal.

I used to teach while sitting on a stool as a lot of teachers do. Part of it is so students can see, but the main function is respect. They sit at the base of the stool to hear, receive, and learn. We worship in the same manner. Worshiping at God's footstool reminds us who we are when compared to God. It humbles us because we are dirty and disgusting sinners. It enables our hearts to receive His Word as life. It declares His greatness far above anything else in all of creation. It stirs us to kneel with our heads down as those unworthy. It reminds us it by His grace alone we worship at His feet.

I've been trying to worship with the mindset of standing next to my friend at eye level. God wants me kneeling at the feet of my King.