But being full of the Holy Spirit, he gazed intently into heaven and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing at the right hand of God. (Acts 7:55)
Therefore if you have been raised up with Christ, keep seeking the things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. (Colossians 3:1)
Seated at the right hand of God
I don’t know what royal protocol is like in heaven but in earthly kingdoms, the king sits and his subjects stand! Paul tells us that after His suffering, death, and resurrection, Jesus is seated in glory as King of kings and Lord of lords.
Standing at the right hand of God
However, as Stephen spoke with courage before those who would slay him, and as he was looking up, he saw an extraordinary sight – Jesus, standing at the right hand of God. What could this mean? Christ, who was seated at the right hand of God, stood up and revealed Himself to Stephen!
Eternal honor
I like to think that this is the honor and glory promised to God’s faithful servants who do not love their life even when faced with death (Revelation 12:11). Could it be that the King stands, receives His servant with honor, and officially presents him to His Father? If that is the case, then this is indeed a very high honor. Unlike earthly crowns that fade away, the honor that Stephen received will eternally be remembered, celebrated, and cherished – filling Stephen’s heart with joy throughout the ages to come.
And what about you and me? What honors are we running after in our earthly life? One of the verses that inspires and motivates me to press on for heavenly rewards is found in Matthew 25:21&23. I long to be received by master with the words, “Well done, good and faithful slave. You were faithful with a few things, I will put you in charge of many things; enter into the joy of your master.”
