In John 14, the apostle John writes, “If anyone loves me, he will obey my teachings. My Father will love him, and We will come to him and MAKE OUR HOME WITH HIM.” That is such an incredible thought. The God of the universe wants to come and make His home in our hearts!

In response to that amazing truth, men and women down through the ages have tried all kinds of ways to demonstrate their devotion to the Lord.  In the 5^th century, the monks in Syria did some interesting “spiritual gymnastics” to display their dedication.

One monk was known as “Simeon, the Pillar Hermit.” To indicate his personal piety and willingness to sacrifice for his Savior, he started connecting himself to a post with an iron chain. Then he buried himself in sand and stayed there for months. Finally, he tried “pole sitting.” His first adventure was on a 6 ft. pole. But he eventually moved to a 60 ft. pole and sat there for 30 years!

While I admire his efforts to display his fidelity to Christ, I am thinking that you and I ought to find some other ways to express our deep devotion to our Savior. And those ways shouldn’t just show up on special occasions, but ought to be habituated, a part of our everyday lives. 

To that end, Andrew Murray (the South African preacher), remarked “Here is the path. Gaze on the glory of God in Him. In Him that is to say, do not look only to the words and the thoughts and the graces in which His glory is seen, but look to Himself, the loving, living Christ. Behold Him. Look in His very eye. Look into His face, as a loving friend, as the living God.”

So, this week, let’s skip those poles and instead focus on things like individual and corporate worship, spiritual celebrations, extended prayer time, and meaningful moments in Bible study. Let’s stretch ourselves with some fasting and personal examination. Let’s make a real effort to meditate on His Word. Let’s love our family and friends with patience and care.

Intimacy with God takes effort. We really do have to “lean in” with genuine displays of affection. Love for the Lord, like all forms of love, needs to be demonstrated.

“Father, this week we ask that you help us prepare your room in our hearts. Help us get rid of the sins that “so easily entangle us.” Help us “dust away” the cobwebs of spiritual inactivity. Help us “polish up” our best efforts to serve you and others. Lord, come make your home within us!”