Today’s Readings:
Rev 18:1-2,21-23,19:1-3,9
Psalm 100:2-5
Luke 21:20-28
God’s glory alone shall last forever. The symbolic cities of Babylon and Jerusalem are expressions of human efforts at sophistication and religion, scientific advancement and religious fervour, financial power and tradition, political power and cultural advancement, military might and social capital. Babylon and Jerusalem stand for our desires to be independent, daring and self-sufficient. But then, they also create the occasion for rebellion against God and forgetfulness of divine providence. But all of creation belongs to God and nothing is outside his domain of power and influence:
“Know that he, the Lord, is God. He made us, we belong to him, we are his people, the sheep of his flock.” (Psalm 100)
As beautiful and immersive as the world is and all the promises it holds for us, all the titles and accolades we could ever desire or hope for, all our plans and preparations, our thirst for pleasure and merriment, our descent into depravity and decadence, our hope for future glory and power, we still have to lay everything down and acclaim God as king forever.
So, how should you view the world’s politics of power and religion?
Everything on earth should lead you to God.
Make your actions purposeful and in line with God’s commandments.
Let every word you speak edify and encourage others.
Let every desire in your heart be for God’s pleasure and not only to indulge yourself.
Keep your eyes fixed on heaven as your goal.
Receive pleasure and pain with the same resolve from God’s hands.
Say “this too shall pass” to everything you experience.
Remember that every day brings you closer to your eternal reward.
Do whatever good you can today for as many people as you can.
Attend Communion service regularly; it will remind you of the wedding feast of the Lamb in heaven.
Seek God's glory and abound in righteousness and you shall glory in the Lord forever and ever. Amen.
JUDE-MARY OWOH
To surrender your life to Christ, say this prayer aloud. “Father, I acknowledge my sin against You. I repent and ask for forgiveness, in the name of Jesus. I surrender to the Lordship of Jesus. By the power of Your Holy Spirit, take control of my heart and lead me in Your path of righteousness. Thank you, Lord.”
If you said the prayer, Congratulations! Prayerfully look for a living church and meet the resident reverend, pastor or priest.
Prayer:
Lord of Creation, blessed are you for all that you have done, all you are doing and all you are going to do for us. Help me to accept that this world will end and all that seems important now will fade away. Fix my eyes, O Lord, on your eternal kingdom and my mind on doing your will. I trust in you and I bless Your name forever. Amen.
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