Matthias, as introduced in Acts 1:15-26, was the disciple chosen to replace Judas Iscariot as one of the twelve apostles after Judas’ betrayal and death.
Who Was He?
Matthias was one of the men who had been with Jesus and His disciples from the time of John the Baptist's ministry through to Jesus’ ascension (Acts 1:21–22).
Although not part of the original Twelve, Matthias had apparently followed Jesus closely and consistently, qualifying him to become a witness to the resurrection—a key requirement for apostleship.
How Was He Chosen?
1. Peter stood among about 120 believers and declared the need to fill the vacancy left by Judas.
2. Two candidates were proposed: Joseph called Barsabbas (also called Justus) and Matthias.
3. The group prayed, asking God to reveal whom He had chosen.
4. They cast lots, and the lot fell on Matthias.
5. He was then numbered with the eleven apostles (Acts 1:26).
Significance:
Matthias’s selection restored the number of apostles to twelve, symbolically important since the twelve apostles paralleled the twelve tribes of Israel.
His appointment emphasizes the sovereignty of God in leadership selection and the role of prayer and discernment in early church decisions.
What Happened to Matthias Afterward?
The Bible does not mention Matthias again after Acts 1.
Church tradition offers varied and conflicting accounts:
Some say he preached in Judea and Cappadocia.
Others claim he was martyred in Ethiopia or Jerusalem.
His feast day is celebrated in different traditions (e.g., February 24 in Western Christianity, August 9 in Eastern Orthodoxy).
In summary, Matthias is a lesser-known but important figure in the early church, representing faithfulness, continuity, and God’s providence in maintaining the integrity of apostolic witness.
Did Matthias see Jesus ascending?
Yes, Matthias almost certainly witnessed Jesus' ascension.
Here’s why we can confidently say that:
Acts 1:21–22 (NIV)
Peter says:
> “Therefore it is necessary to choose one of the men who have been with us the whole time the Lord Jesus was living among us, beginning from John’s baptism to the time when Jesus was taken up from us. For one of these must become a witness with us of his resurrection.”
This means:
The requirement for being chosen as an apostle was continuous presence from Jesus’ baptism by John to the Ascension.
Matthias fulfilled this requirement, which implies he witnessed all those events, including the Ascension.
The Ascension Itself
Recorded in Acts 1:9–11, just a few verses before Matthias is chosen.
Occurred in the presence of Jesus’ disciples, shortly before the appointment of Matthias.
Therefore, yes, Matthias saw Jesus ascend into heaven and was likely standing with the rest of the disciples when it happened—though his name is not singled out, his inclusion among those eligible confirms it.
How many people saw Jesus ascend to heaven?
The exact number of people who witnessed Jesus’ ascension into heaven is not stated explicitly in Scripture, but we can infer a reasonable estimate based on the context of Acts 1.
Key Text: Acts 1:9–12
> “After he said this, he was taken up before their very eyes, and a cloud hid him from their sight. They were looking intently up into the sky as he was going, when suddenly two men dressed in white stood beside them...”
– Acts 1:9–10 (NIV)
Who Was Present?
1. The Eleven Apostles are specifically mentioned earlier in Acts 1:13:
> “...Peter, John, James and Andrew; Philip and Thomas, Bartholomew and Matthew; James son of Alphaeus and Simon the Zealot, and Judas son of James.”
2. Acts 1:15 says there were about 120 believers gathered in total in the upper room.
However, this gathering is not clearly said to be at the moment of the Ascension.
3. Acts 1:4 states:
> “On one occasion, while he was eating with them, he gave them this command: ‘Do not leave Jerusalem, but wait for the gift my Father promised...’”
This suggests Jesus spoke to a group, but it does not confirm whether all 120 were present for the Ascension.
Conservative Estimate:
Most scholars agree that at least the 11 apostles witnessed the Ascension.
Possibly Matthias (though not yet chosen) and a few other close disciples.
The number of witnesses was likely somewhere between 11 and 120, but closer to a smaller inner group.
Summary:
Minimum number: 11 (the remaining apostles)
Possible range: 11 to 120
Most likely: A small group including the 11 apostles and perhaps a few other close followers—those most directly commissioned as witnesses of the resurrection and Ascension.
We cannot know the precise count, but the Ascension was a real, visible, witnessed event, confirmed by angels and central to apostolic testimony.
How long did Jesus stay on earth after rising again but before ascending to heaven? And what was his business schedule during that period of time?
Jesus stayed on earth for 40 days after His resurrection and before His ascension into heaven.
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πΉ How do we know this?
Acts 1:3 (NIV) says:
> “After his suffering, he presented himself to them and gave many convincing proofs that he was alive. He appeared to them over a period of forty days and spoke about the kingdom of God.”
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πΉ What was Jesus doing during those 40 days?
His "business schedule," so to speak, focused on three main tasks:
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1. Proving He Was Truly Resurrected
Jesus made multiple appearances to demonstrate He was alive in a real, bodily form, not just a spirit:
To Mary Magdalene (John 20:11–18)
To two disciples on the road to Emmaus (Luke 24:13–35)
To the disciples in a locked room (John 20:19–23)
To Thomas one week later (John 20:26–29)
To seven disciples at the Sea of Galilee (John 21)
To more than 500 people at once (1 Corinthians 15:6)
To James, His brother (1 Corinthians 15:7)
Multiple gatherings with the apostles (Acts 1:3)
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2. Teaching About the Kingdom of God
Jesus continued to instruct and clarify the nature of God's kingdom—a spiritual, redemptive reign, not a political one.
He helped the disciples understand the Scriptures more fully (Luke 24:27, 44–45).
He emphasized the mission to all nations (Luke 24:47; Acts 1:8).
He reaffirmed the coming of the Holy Spirit as their guide and source of power (Acts 1:4–5).
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3. Preparing the Disciples for Their Mission
Jesus:
Commissioned them: “Go and make disciples of all nations...” (Matthew 28:19–20).
Commanded them to wait in Jerusalem for the gift of the Holy Spirit (Acts 1:4).
Clarified their role as witnesses (Acts 1:8): “You will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”
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πΉ Summary of His 40-Day Mission:
Focus Purpose
Appearances to prove He was alive and encourage the fearful disciples
Teachings to clarify the meaning of Scripture and God's kingdom
Commissioning To send the disciples with authority and a promise of the Spirit
Ascension To return to the Father and assume His glorified heavenly role
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If you’d like a timeline or day-by-day summary of these 40 days or a visual chart, I can provide that too.
Please do.
Here is a timeline-style summary of Jesus' key appearances and activities during the 40 days between His resurrection and ascension, based on the Gospels, Acts, and 1 Corinthians:
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π️ Day 1: Resurrection Sunday
Event Scripture
Jesus rises from the dead Matthew 28:1–10; Mark 16:1–8; Luke 24:1–12; John 20:1–18
Appears to Mary Magdalene John 20:11–18
Appears to other women Matthew 28:9–10
Appears to Peter (privately) Luke 24:34; 1 Cor. 15:5
Appears to two disciples on the road to Emmaus Luke 24:13–35
Appears to the Ten disciples (Thomas absent) Luke 24:36–49; John 20:19–23
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π️ Day 8: One Week Later
Event Scripture
Appears to the Eleven disciples (Thomas present this time) John 20:24–29
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π️ Sometime in the Following Weeks (exact days not specified)
Event Scripture
Appears to seven disciples at the Sea of Galilee – miraculous catch of fish John 21:1–14
Restores Peter ("Do you love me?") John 21:15–19
Appears to more than 500 believers at once 1 Corinthians 15:6
Appears to James (Jesus’ brother) 1 Corinthians 15:7
Teaches about the Kingdom of God Acts 1:3
Gives the Great Commission Matthew 28:16–20; Mark 16:15–18
Commands them to wait in Jerusalem for the Holy Spirit Luke 24:49; Acts 1:4–5
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π️ Day 40: The Ascension
Event Scripture
Leads the disciples to the Mount of Olives (near Bethany) Luke 24:50
Gives final blessing and promise of Holy Spirit Acts 1:6–8
Ascends into heaven before their eyes Luke 24:50–53; Acts 1:9–11
Angels assure them of His future return Acts 1:10–11
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π Summary Timeline Chart
Day Event
1 Resurrection; 5+ appearances
8 Appears to Thomas and others
~10–30 Teaches, appears to many, performs miracles
~30–39 Private teachings, commissions, appearances
40 Final instructions, Ascension into heaven
During this period of time, did he also drop by the Father's place and come back down again?
Excellent and deep question.
Yes — Scripture strongly suggests that Jesus did ascend to the Father early after His resurrection, then returned to earth for the remainder of the 40 days before His final public ascension.
Let’s break this down.
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πΉ 1. John 20:17 — "I have not yet ascended..."
On Resurrection Sunday, Jesus says to Mary Magdalene:
> "Do not hold on to me, for I have not yet ascended to the Father. Go instead to my brothers and tell them, ‘I am ascending to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God.’”
— John 20:17 (NIV)
This implies:
Jesus was on His way to the Father.
He temporarily withheld physical contact, possibly due to a holy transition about to take place.
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πΉ 2. Later That Same Day: Physical Contact Permitted
Later that evening, Jesus appears to the disciples and lets them touch Him:
> “See my hands and my feet... Touch me and see; a spirit does not have flesh and bones as you see I have.”
— Luke 24:39
Also, Thomas is invited to touch His wounds a week later (John 20:27).
πΈ This change — from “do not touch” to “touch me” — suggests that something holy had occurred in the interim:
Jesus had gone to the Father, possibly to present Himself as the risen Lamb, and then returned.
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πΉ 3. Hebrews 9:11–12 — Entering the Heavenly Sanctuary
> “But when Christ came as high priest… he entered the Most Holy Place once for all by his own blood, thus obtaining eternal redemption.”
— Hebrews 9:11–12
This likely refers to:
A real heavenly act in which Jesus, the true High Priest, entered the heavenly temple.
Offered not animal blood, but His own risen, glorified self — once-for-all atonement.
This “entrance” into the heavenly sanctuary could correspond to that moment on Resurrection Day when Jesus tells Mary, “I have not yet ascended.”
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πΉ 4. Conclusion: Two "Ascensions"?
You could describe it like this:
Ascension Type --- When --- Purpose
===========================
Private/Spiritual --- Early Resurrection Sunday (John 20:17) --- To present Himself to the Father as the firstfruits of resurrection (see 1 Cor. 15:20)
Public/Visible ---- Day 40 (Acts 1:9–11) --- To depart from earth and take His seat at the right hand of God (Mark 16:19; Acts 2:33)
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π️ In Summary
Yes, it appears Jesus did go to the Father early on Resurrection Day, then returned to continue appearing to His disciples for 40 days before His final ascension.
This underscores the depth of His role as both Savior and High Priest, operating in both earthly and heavenly realms for our sake.
Elaborate on His post-ascension role he assumed, and still performing to date.
Absolutely — this is one of the most powerful and overlooked aspects of Jesus’ ongoing ministry. After His ascension, Jesus did not retire, but transitioned from His earthly mission to a heavenly, ongoing role as King, High Priest, Advocate, and Intercessor.
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πΉ 1. Jesus the Exalted King
After His ascension, Jesus sat down at the right hand of God, a position of authority, honor, and rulership.
> “God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name.”
— Philippians 2:9–11
> “He sat down at the right hand of the Majesty in heaven.”
— Hebrews 1:3
What this means:
He is King of kings and Lord of lords (Revelation 19:16)
He rules not just someday, but now — over the Church, over nations, and ultimately over time and eternity
All enemies are being made a footstool for His feet (Psalm 110:1; Hebrews 10:13)
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πΉ 2. Jesus the Great High Priest
Jesus intercedes on our behalf before the Father.
> “We have a great high priest who has ascended into heaven… Jesus the Son of God.”
— Hebrews 4:14
> “He always lives to intercede for them.”
— Hebrews 7:25
What this means:
He stands between us and the Father, not to beg, but to represent us as one who understands our weakness.
His once-for-all sacrifice continues to speak on our behalf (Hebrews 9:24–26)
We now have direct access to God’s throne through Jesus (Hebrews 4:16)
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πΉ 3. Jesus the Advocate
When we sin, Jesus defends us before God — not by denying our guilt, but by pointing to His own righteousness applied to us.
> “If anybody does sin, we have an advocate with the Father—Jesus Christ, the Righteous One.”
— 1 John 2:1
What this means:
He pleads our cause, not based on our merit, but His.
He ensures that Satan’s accusations do not prevail (Revelation 12:10–11)
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πΉ 4. Jesus the Head of the Church
Jesus is actively building, guiding, and purifying His Church.
> “And he put all things under his feet and gave him as head over all things to the church...”
— Ephesians 1:22–23
What this means:
He sends the Holy Spirit to empower and guide the Church (John 16:7–13; Acts 2)
He gives gifts to the Church — apostles, pastors, teachers, etc. — for her edification (Ephesians 4:11–13)
He is preparing a spotless Bride for Himself (Ephesians 5:27)
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πΉ 5. Jesus the Coming Judge and Redeemer
Though ascended, Jesus will return:
> “This same Jesus... will come back in the same way you have seen him go into heaven.”
— Acts 1:11
When He returns:
He will judge the living and the dead (Acts 17:31; 2 Tim 4:1)
He will bring final justice and full redemption for His people
He will establish His eternal kingdom — new heaven and new earth (Revelation 21–22)
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✝️ Summary: Jesus’ Ongoing Ministry in Heaven
Role ---Function ---Scripture
=====================
King -- Reigns over all creation, nations, and the Church ---Phil. 2:9–11, Eph. 1:20–23
High Priest ---Intercedes with compassion and authority --- Hebrews 4:14–16, 7:25
Advocate --- Defends believers against condemnation --- 1 John 2:1–2
Head of Church --- Sends the Spirit, gives gifts, leads and purifies the Church ---Eph. 4:11–13, John 16:7
Coming Judge ---Will return to judge and renew all things ---Acts 1:11, Rev. 22:12–13
Can you put in perspective on his post ascension role in relation with his messages addressed to his church as in first 4 chapters of Revelation?
Absolutely. The first four chapters of Revelation provide a vivid window into Jesus’ post-ascension role, showing Him not distant or passive in heaven, but actively involved with His Church—guiding, correcting, comforting, and preparing her for what’s to come.
Let’s explore how His heavenly ministry (as King, High Priest, Advocate, and Lord of the Church) is reflected in Revelation chapters 1–4.
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πΉ 1. Revelation 1: The Glorified Christ Revealed
➤ Jesus is seen among the seven lampstands
> “…I saw seven golden lampstands, and among the lampstands was someone like a son of man...”
— Revelation 1:12–13
The lampstands represent the churches (1:20), and Jesus is "among" them, not watching from afar.
He is present, involved in the spiritual health and witness of each congregation.
➤ Clothed in a priestly and kingly robe
> “...dressed in a robe reaching down to his feet with a golden sash around his chest.”
— 1:13
This matches His High Priest role (Hebrews 4:14), overseeing the "temple" of His people.
The golden sash signals royalty and purity — He is both Priest and King.
➤ Holding stars in His hand and eyes like fire
> “In his right hand he held seven stars… His eyes were like blazing fire...”
— 1:16, 14
The stars = leaders/angels of the churches — showing His authority and care.
His eyes of fire symbolize piercing judgment and insight — nothing is hidden.
π In essence: Jesus is portrayed as the exalted, divine overseer of the Church, holding her in His hand, examining her, sustaining her, and speaking directly to her.
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πΉ 2. Revelation 2–3: Messages to the Seven Churches
Each message follows a pattern:
A description of Jesus’ attribute (taken from Rev. 1 vision)
Commendation (if applicable)
Correction / Warning
Promise to the overcomer
➤ Jesus’ Active Roles Reflected:
Role --- How it appears in Revelation 2–3
==============================
High Priest --- He evaluates each church’s faithfulness, spiritual health, and warns of judgment or loss of witness (e.g., Ephesus losing its lampstand – 2:5)
Advocate --- He encourages the faithful (e.g., “I know your afflictions” – Smyrna) and gives comfort: “Do not be afraid” (2:10)
Ruler-King --- He speaks with authority, rewards obedience (“I will give the crown of life” – 2:10), and warns of coming judgment
Refiner---His message is not just to affirm, but to purify and discipline His Church: “Those whom I love I rebuke and discipline” (3:19)
Bridegroom --- His promises are relational and eternal — “I will give you the right to sit with me on my throne” (3:21)
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➤ Examples of His Role per Church:
Church Jesus’ Role Displayed Key Message
================================
Ephesus Inspector of Love & Labor: “You have forsaken your first love.”
Smyrna Comforter in Persecution: “Do not be afraid of what you are about to suffer.”
Pergamum Guardian of Truth “You have people who hold to the teaching of Balaam…”
Thyatira Eyes of Fire – Moral Purifier “I will repay each of you according to your deeds.”
Sardis Caller to Wakefulness: “You have a reputation… but you are dead.”
Philadelphia Keeper of Open Doors “I have placed before you an open door that no one can shut.”
Laodicea Refiner and Knocking Redeemer “Those whom I love I rebuke… I stand at the door and knock.”
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πΉ 3. Revelation 4: Throne Room of Heaven
This chapter shifts from the churches to the heavenly realm, but it’s still about Jesus’ post-ascension role.
Jesus is not named directly here but is in view as the Lamb who will appear in chapter 5.
God is enthroned, worshiped for His holiness and sovereignty.
The heavenly court is in session — preparing to hand the scroll to the Lamb, who alone is worthy to enact God’s redemptive and judicial plans (Rev. 5).
π This shows that Jesus, already enthroned, is preparing to unfold history toward final justice and redemption.
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π️ Summary Perspective:
Jesus' Post-Ascension Role as Seen in Revelation 1–4:
Role -- Revelation -- Reflection
=======================
High Priest -- Walking among the lampstands, inspecting, refining
Advocate - Comforting the faithful, encouraging perseverance
King -- Holding all authority, rewarding overcomers, opening and shutting doors
Head of Church -- Speaking directly to the churches, correcting, guiding
Coming Judge -- Preparing to receive the scroll and break its seals (Rev. 4–5)
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Isn't this role related with the Old Testament's prophecy in the refiners fire'?
Yes — absolutely! Jesus’ post-ascension role as spiritual examiner, purifier, and judge is very much related to the Old Testament prophecy of the “refiner’s fire”, particularly found in Malachi 3. This prophetic imagery is directly connected to what Jesus is seen doing in Revelation 1–3, especially in His dealings with the churches.
Let’s unpack the connection:
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π₯ Malachi 3:1–3 – The Refiner’s Fire Prophecy
> “Behold, I send my messenger, and he will prepare the way before me.
And the Lord whom you seek will suddenly come to his temple...
But who can endure the day of his coming, and who can stand when he appears?
For he is like a refiner’s fire and like fullers’ soap.
He will sit as a refiner and purifier of silver,
and he will purify the sons of Levi and refine them like gold and silver...”
— Malachi 3:1–3 (ESV)
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πΉ What Does This Mean?
The “Lord” (Jesus) would come to His temple — but not merely to inhabit it, rather to purify it.
The “sons of Levi”, originally priests, now symbolize those who serve God — today, all believers are a “royal priesthood” (1 Peter 2:9).
A refiner’s fire removes impurities from precious metals — an image of spiritual cleansing, correction, and restoration.
A launderer’s soap (fuller’s soap) washes deeply — it is not gentle, but purifies thoroughly.
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π₯ Connection to Revelation 1–3
Malachi’s Prophecy -- Jesus’ Role in Revelation
==================================
“The Lord… will come to His temple” --- Jesus walks among the lampstands (the churches = His new temple)
“Who can endure the day of His coming?” --- Jesus speaks with eyes like fire, feet like bronze, and divine authority
“He will purify the sons of Levi” ---Jesus purifies the Church, rebuking, correcting, refining (Rev 2–3)
“Refiner’s fire” -- Jesus warns of judgment but offers hope to those who overcome and repent
“He will sit as a refiner”---Jesus is seated at the right hand of God, yet active in examining His people
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πΉ Specific Examples in Revelation
Ephesus: “You have lost your first love… if you do not repent, I will remove your lampstand.”
→ This is Jesus acting as refiner, removing impurity.
Thyatira: “I have this against you… that you tolerate Jezebel…”
→ He threatens severe discipline but offers a way back — purification through repentance.
Laodicea: “Those whom I love I rebuke and discipline. So be earnest and repent.”
→ Clear echo of Malachi’s refining love.
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✝️ Bigger Picture
The refining process is not punishment alone — it is an act of love, aimed at restoring holiness, truth, and faithfulness.
> “Those whom I love, I rebuke and discipline.”
— Revelation 3:19
Jesus, the risen Lord, is now:
Purifying His Church (refiner’s fire)
Correcting His people (disciplining in love)
Calling them to readiness for His return (making the Bride spotless)
This continues until the Church is fully prepared, like a bride for her groom (Rev 19:7–8).
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π️ In Summary:
Yes — the “refiner’s fire” of Malachi 3 prophetically prefigures Jesus’ current heavenly ministry. His post-ascension role is not passive — He is the active purifier of His people, lovingly refining His Church to make her holy and radiant for the day of His return.
Would you like a devotional reflection or poetic rendering on “Jesus, the Refiner”?
Certainly. Here's both a devotional reflection and a poetic rendering titled “Jesus, the Refiner.”
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✨ Devotional Reflection
Title: Jesus, the Refiner of Hearts
> “He will sit as a refiner and purifier of silver…”
— Malachi 3:3
“Those whom I love, I rebuke and discipline…”
— Revelation 3:19
After His ascension, Jesus did not withdraw into distant glory. Instead, He entered a higher office, one that still reaches into the deepest chambers of our lives. He became our heavenly Refiner — not merely watching over the Church, but walking among the lampstands, eyes like blazing fire, discerning every motive, thought, and deed.
The risen Lord purifies, not to destroy, but to restore. Like a silversmith who patiently tends the fire until his own reflection gleams in the metal, Christ works patiently in us, melting away pride, compromise, fear, and indifference. The churches of Revelation — Ephesus, Laodicea, Thyatira — are not just ancient cities. They mirror us. Our spiritual apathy, divided loyalties, and lukewarmness still draw His loving correction.
But take heart: His fire is never aimless. It is the fire of holy love — not to burn us up, but to burn away what holds us back. His goal is holiness, wholeness, and intimacy.
So if you find yourself in a season of refining — of correction, discomfort, or discipline — know that the Refiner sits by the flame. He has not abandoned you. He is shaping you. And one day, when the work is complete, you will shine like purified gold, ready to reflect His glory.
> πΉ Lord Jesus, refine me in Your holy fire. Burn away all that is false and unfaithful. Let Your image be formed in me — until I shine with Your love, walk in Your truth, and stand firm in Your presence. Amen.
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✨ Poem: Jesus, the Refiner
He walks where lamps are softly lit,
Among His churches’ flame,
With eyes that search the soul’s deep pit,
And lips that call by name.
Not distant King nor silent Priest,
He tends the coals with care,
To draw the gold, refine the least,
And lift us through His prayer.
The fire burns not to destroy,
But purge the dross of sin,
To melt what chokes our deeper joy,
And make us new within.
O piercing flame, so fierce, so kind,
O gaze that sees it all—
Remove what love would leave behind,
And raise what grace would call.
Till in Your face our lives reflect,
Your purity our song—
Refined, restored, Your Bride elect,
Made radiant, true, and strong.
Card Title: Jesus, the Refiner
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Front Panel (Title & Scripture)
Jesus, the Refiner
"He will sit as a refiner and purifier of silver."
— Malachi 3:3
"Those whom I love, I rebuke and discipline."
— Revelation 3:19
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Inside Left Panel (Devotional Reflection)
Devotional Reflection: Jesus, the Refiner of Hearts
After His ascension, Jesus did not withdraw into distant glory. Instead, He entered a higher office, one that still reaches into the deepest chambers of our lives. He became our heavenly Refiner — not merely watching over the Church, but walking among the lampstands, eyes like blazing fire, discerning every motive, thought, and deed.
The risen Lord purifies, not to destroy, but to restore. Like a silversmith who patiently tends the fire until his own reflection gleams in the metal, Christ works patiently in us, melting away pride, compromise, fear, and indifference. The churches of Revelation — Ephesus, Laodicea, Thyatira — are not just ancient cities. They mirror us. Our spiritual apathy, divided loyalties, and lukewarmness still draw His loving correction.
But take heart: His fire is never aimless. It is the fire of holy love — not to burn us up, but to burn away what holds us back. His goal is holiness, wholeness, and intimacy.
So if you find yourself in a season of refining — of correction, discomfort, or discipline — know that the Refiner sits by the flame. He has not abandoned you. He is shaping you. And one day, when the work is complete, you will shine like purified gold, ready to reflect His glory.
Lord Jesus, refine me in Your holy fire. Burn away all that is false and unfaithful. Let Your image be formed in me — until I shine with Your love, walk in Your truth, and stand firm in Your presence. Amen.
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Inside Right Panel (Poem)
Poem: Jesus, the Refiner
He walks where lamps are softly lit,
Among His churches’ flame,
With eyes that search the soul’s deep pit,
And lips that call by name.
Not distant King nor silent Priest,
He tends the coals with care,
To draw the gold, refine the least,
And lift us through His prayer.
The fire burns not to destroy,
But purge the dross of sin,
To melt what chokes our deeper joy,
And make us new within.
O piercing flame, so fierce, so kind,
O gaze that sees it all—
Remove what love would leave behind,
And raise what grace would call.
Till in Your face our lives reflect,
Your purity our song—
Refined, restored, Your Bride elect,
Made radiant, true, and strong.
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Back Panel (Closing Thought)
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