Rewarded

Intro:

This is the final of 52 Devotions for Pastors and Leaders. The idea is for them to be reflected upon and enjoyed weekly. Please go ahead and access any you have missed from my website: https://healthypastors.com.au/

Opening Prayer:

As we draw near to you today, Jesus, it’s with joy and delight that we have been able to share this experience together. Thank you for all you have been doing in me as I have been writing them and thank you for all you have been doing for our readers. We give you thanks and praise. And we know that we can not do anything of transformational significance spiritually without you. So, thank you Holy Spirit for your work in our lives, together.

We invite you to be very near to us again now.

Bible Verse:

For I am already being poured out like a drink offering, and the time for my departure is near. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing.

(2 Timothy 4:6-8 NIV)

Reflection:

The end will face all of us one day. In fact, Scripture is clear that we will not know the day or hour. Our times are in His hands. So the one certainty is that our life will end. Then, the big question is: What will we do between now, as you read this, and the day of your departure?

Paul had been spoken with by the Lord to forewarn him that his end was near. He would be martyred for his faith. But he could say with complete assurance that he had “fought the good fight, finished his race and kept the faith”. Amazing. Such an example for you and I.

I want people to see Jesus in me. That when they think about me and talk of me at my funeral, they will speak of the wondrous works of my Saviour as he worked through me. This is my desire. How about you?

There’s not only an amazing example here from Paul. There’s also a promise. A promise that there is a “crown of righteousness” awaiting me as I prepare for heaven. Now don’t get me wrong. I’m only 62. So, if health and strength allows in each area of my being, I’m praying for another 30 or more years to serve Jesus.

A “crown of righteousness” speaks to me of a beautiful reward from the Lord. Just as he says also in His word…”well done good and faithful servant, enter into your rest”.

Heaven awaits. But we’ve still got lots to do for Jesus whilst we’re here on earth.

What might you do today with eternity in mind?

Prayer:

It’s been a beautiful journey with you Jesus as I’ve written these and I pray that it has been a wonderful journey of experiencing you for each of our readers too. Be with us today and always Lord as we remember that there is an eternal reward awaiting us. It is beyond what we could think or imagine…being in your presence Lord forever. Thank you Jesus.

Amen.