Discovering the Thin Space: Embracing the Presence of God Within Us
At Rain Christian Church in Hermanus, we recently delved into a profound concept that resonates deeply with our faith: the idea of the “thin space.” This term is often used in Christianity, but its meaning can sometimes elude us. It’s a beautiful way to describe moments when we feel a stronger connection to God, times when heaven and earth seem to touch. Let’s explore this idea and understand how it impacts our relationship with God.
Understanding the Thin Space
The term “thin space” refers to those moments or places where we feel especially close to God. It’s like a bridge between the spiritual and the physical, where God’s presence is more tangible. This concept can be traced back to various biblical events where God’s presence was unmistakably felt, such as Moses encountering the burning bush or the giving of the law on Mount Sinai.
In our modern understanding, we might describe times of prayer or worship where we feel a heightened sense of connection to God as experiencing an “open heaven.” These are moments when communicating with God feels effortless and profound.
Jesus: The Ultimate Thin Space
When Jesus walked the earth, He was the embodiment of this thin space. He perfectly reflected God, as He said, “If you’ve seen me, you’ve seen the Father.” Jesus was the ultimate manifestation of God among us, showing the Father’s heart through His actions of healing, providing, and teaching.
The disciples experienced this firsthand. John, the beloved disciple who was very close to Jesus, had a profound encounter with the risen Lord on the island of Patmos. Despite his familiarity with Jesus, John’s reaction was one of awe and reverence, illustrating the transformative power of Jesus’ presence.
Moving Beyond Physical Locations
A significant shift occurred after Jesus’ resurrection. The temple, once the focal point of God’s presence, was no longer the primary place to encounter God. Jesus’ sacrifice opened the way for a new understanding. The veil in the temple was torn, signifying that access to God was no longer restricted to a physical location.
The New Testament emphasizes that God’s presence now dwells within us. Paul writes in Corinthians, “Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit?” This means that each believer is a living temple, carrying the presence of God wherever they go.
Embracing Our Role as Temples of the Holy Spirit
This understanding transforms how we live our daily lives. We don’t need to make pilgrimages to holy places to experience God’s presence. Instead, we carry that holy presence within us. This realization calls us to live in a way that honors God, reflecting His love and holiness in all we do.
Imagine the impact we can have when we fully grasp this truth. As temples of the Holy Spirit, we become places where others can encounter God. Our interactions, our words, and our actions become opportunities to minister God’s love and grace to the world around us.
The Power of the Holy Spirit
The outpouring of the Holy Spirit on Pentecost marked a pivotal moment. The fire of God no longer descended upon a mountain or a building but upon people. This signified that God’s presence was now intimately and personally connected to His followers.
The transformation seen in the disciples after receiving the Holy Spirit is remarkable. They went from being fearful and uncertain to boldly proclaiming the gospel, even in the face of persecution. This boldness and empowerment come from the Holy Spirit dwelling within us.
Living as Bearers of God’s Presence
Understanding that we are temples of the Holy Spirit challenges us to live authentically and purposefully. We are called to be “little Christs,” reflecting Jesus in our interactions and daily lives. When people see us, they should see the love, compassion, and truth of Christ.
This revelation also invites us to move beyond merely seeking spiritual experiences. Instead, we recognize that every moment, every place, and every interaction can be a thin space where God’s presence is made manifest.
Conclusion
At Rain Christian Church, we embrace the profound truth that God’s presence is not confined to buildings or special locations. We are the living temples of the Holy Spirit, carrying His presence within us. This understanding empowers us to live boldly, love deeply, and reflect God’s glory in our everyday lives.
As we grow in this revelation, let’s continue to seek God with all our hearts, knowing that He is always with us, within us, and working through us to touch the world. Join us in this journey of discovering the thin space within and experiencing the fullness of God’s presence in every aspect of our lives.
Watch the full sermon here
