In this life we are clothed in dull and fading rags. As time passes, the slow unwinding of the years further unravels the fibres of this life’s coverings. We scurry to deflect attention and grasp at ornaments to decorate our fading façade.
Christ knows this very well. He walked in humility, and people often reacted accordingly (Isaiah 53:2). Throughout the Gospels we see that many sought the outward robes of a king rather than the humble Servant whom God had sent. We also see how the Church has been treated throughout the centuries, hearing the mocking scoffs of the masses. Christians, like Christ, often bear the outward appearance of servants rather than rulers.
Yet Christians are called to suffer and serve, just as Christ our Lord did (Philippians 2:3–4; Philippians 1:29).
Romans 8:18 reminds us that a future glory awaits us—a glory that will one day be revealed. Our good works reveal the glory of God (Matthew 5:16). Until the garments of this life finally fade and turn to ash, we endure in hope of that coming revelation, facing present suffering for the joy that awaits us.
Our High Priest, Jesus Christ, first came as a servant clothed in humility. Yet in Exodus we see the elaborate splendour and beauty of the High Priestly garments. In the same way, the faithfulness of God’s people will one day be revealed. The works built upon Christ will be tested, and God will reward what endures (1 Corinthians 3:12–14).
Therefore walk in dignity, love, and faithfulness as Christ walked. In the face of the pomp and glory of this present age, walk as He did, reflecting His character in this life. Let our lives knit together threads of peace that will endure for eternity. What is done for Him now will be revealed in the age to come, bringing honour to the King whom we serve.
Lord, help us to persist and keep our gaze fixed upon You rather than upon the riches of this world. Let us prepare our gifts with joy for Your glory.
Lord our God, please turn the grey tones into colour!
You turn the mire of life into pottery that holds volumes of joy.
You turn the dust of burned dreams into hardened bricks that build shelter for peace.
Screeching wails are harmonised and woven into songs of praise.
You use pain and broken dreams for worship. In the contrast of light and darkness we see the stars at night, standing as witnesses and messengers of the coming dawn.
Let us bear good fruit—love, joy, and peace—and suffer for righteousness as Christ suffered, knowing that great is our reward.
May we be found faithful servants despite the wailing terrors of those who reject Your ways and mock Your righteousness as we bear witness to You through our lives. Insults may drip from their tongues, and their plans may cause suffering, yet even these trials perfect the threads that You are weaving into the garments of eternity.
One day we shall be clothed in the glory You have prepared, all for Your honour and praise.
Praise the King of kings and the Prince of Peace.
“Blessed are you when they insult you and persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of Me. Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.”
(Matthew 5:11–12)