Behold

Behold – to see or observe (someone or something, especially of remarkable or impressive nature).

It’s such a regal sounding word and carries so much more weight that just “to look” or “to see”. And like its definition it is impressive. Using the word compels the hearer to indeed pay attention, to know that they are looking at something remarkable. To me it also inspires a connection between the viewer and the subject. Yet, it’s not a word that gets a lot of use nowadays. Maybe there’s just not a lot around that’s worth beholding??

However, it is to be found several times in the Bible.

‘The next day he saw Jesus coming toward him, and said, “Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!” (John 1:29)

And appropriately for the significance that this word suggests, it is Jesus. Lamb of God that we’re asked to behold.

I can’t think of anyone more worthy to behold. To not just look at, but to really really see.

“In a loud voice they were saying: “Worthy is the Lamb, who was slain, to receive power and wealth and wisdom and strength and honor and glory and praise!” ” (Revelation 5:12)

Behold.

Behold the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world.