God’s Finished Work
Scripture Reading — Revelation 21:22-27
The kings of the earth will bring their splendor into [the city].
When I was younger, my parents took me to see Canada Place under construction. This iconic building near the banks of the North Saskatchewan River in Edmonton took several years to build, and it was a remarkable sight as it rose up from a giant hole in the ground to become a skyscraper against the clouds. Even as a boy, I remember a sense of anticipation as hundreds of builders worked toward their goal.
We began our devotions this month on God’s example of work in creation. God then set human beings to work as caretakers who would help him bring out the full potential and possibilities of creation. Millennia later, we labor under the curse of sin in the hope of ultimate renewal. This passage from John’s vision of heaven gives us a glimpse of God’s finished work. Heaven will be a great and glorious city! The garden of creation will reach its full potential, and all who love Jesus will dwell there with God forever.
“The kings of the earth will bring their splendor into it.” What will this splendor be? Many think it will include cultural treasures spanning the ages. Imagine: music from the Baroque period, art from the Renaissance, poetry of Eastern Asia, delicacies from South America, advances in technology, and much more—all carried in as an offering to God! Let us work today in anticipation of that great and glorious day!
Thank you, God, for the gift of work. Thank you that one day we will live with you in the fullness of your glory forever! 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.
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