The message to Thyatira is not an easy read. As I began planning the music, I assumed that Jack wouldn’t preach a sermon titled, “The Deep Things of Satan,” or “Jezebel’s Fornication,” and instead I gravitated toward more general themes of holiness, idolatry and the Lord being the one who “searches minds and hearts.” This led me right to Psalm 139 and one of my favorite songs from Joyful Noises, Carol Petter’s “Search Me, O God.”
As we continue our Lenten journey, Psalm 139 makes a perfect devotional. The Psalmist shows how intimate the relationship can be between God and humans. Even before we were born, even when we try to run and hide, God is there. Any stern word of warning, such as that to Thyatira (and us) in Revelation 2:18-28, must always be heard in the context of a God who knows us, loves us, and pursues us throughout all our days. Because we want to open ourselves completely to this loving God, we say with the Psalmist: Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my thoughts. See if there is any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.
-Greg Scheer