I have great memories of growing up in Edmonton, Alberta, during the glory days of the Edmonton Oilers hockey team. Do you remember your glory days? Maybe it was your season as a star quarterback, or those years when you were at the height of your career. The problem with glory days is that nothing else can measure up. When we dwell on past glory, we are not satisfied with the present.
Judah longed for their glory days. After seventy years in exile, they had returned to their old land to rebuild. But after a month of construction on the temple, work ground to a halt. The framework of the new temple paled in comparison to the memory of the old temple. Old-timers remembered how things used to be, and they doubted that this new temple would measure up. Could God live in such a meager dwelling? Yes! God assured his people that his presence is not dictated by outward appearance.
That’s true today as well. We as Jesus’ followers are temples of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19). Regardless of how low we might feel about ourselves, we are indwelt with God’s Spirit to display God’s glory in worship, service, and fellowship.
How is God’s presence apparent in your life?
Glorious God, sometimes we look for your presence only in beautiful sanctuaries. We forget we are your temple! Help us to make known your glorious presence to a hurting world. In Jesus, Amen.
About the author — Rob Toornstra
Rob Toornstra has served as pastor of Sunnyslope Christian Reformed Church in Salem, Oregon, since 2006. When not busy with pastoral duties, he enjoys spending time with his wife, Amy, and their three children.
Start your day with quick daily devotions.
See God's love, power, presence, and purpose in your life every day!