In Due Season We Shall Reap
Sometimes it is tempting to become cynical and give up. It is important that
during times of distress that the Christian always seek to do that which is
right. We are told "not to grow weary in well doing." Why? What's the use? The
promise is made: "For in due season we shall reap." (Galatians 6:9).
The Psalmist described that season of reaping as a day of prepared tables and
cups that overflow; of goodness and mercy and of "dwelling in the house of the
Lord forever." (Psalm 23). The New Testament reminds us that God is not so
unjust that He would forget our work and love (Hebrews 6:10). We are challenged
to live in hope, to keep on doing that which is good and to trust in God for the
results. To live in hope will make this life better as we prepare for the next.
All of us have our weaknesses, but God's strength upon which we can choose to
depend never diminishes. The Scriptures ask, "Do you not know? Have you not
heard? The Everlasting God, the Lord, the Creator.. does not become weary or
tired... He gives strength to the weary. And to him who lacks might He increases
power... Those who wait for the Lord will gain new strength; they will mount up
like eagles..." (Excerpts from Isaiah 40:28-31).
It was Peter, James and John that went up the mountain with Jesus. They were
overwhelmed by what they saw and heard that day. It was awesome in every since
of the word. We use the word "awesome" a lot. Even about things that are not
awesome; like a football game or a movie or a car. But those things are not
awesome. They might be interesting or exciting or even surprising. But here is
awesome: Consider Matthew 17:2 ; 5-6 ; "And He was transfigured before them; and
His face shone like the sun, and His garments became as white as light. While he
was still speaking, a bright cloud overshadowed them, and behold, a voice out of
the cloud said, "This is My beloved Son, with whom I am well-pleased; listen to
Him!" When the disciples heard this, they fell face down to the ground and were
terrified. "
Now, why did these three men fall on the ground like that? Was it because they
had the utmost respect for Jesus as believers? No! Anyone would have felt
similarly. Suppose it had not been Peter, James and John with Jesus, but rather
Herod, or Pilate, or even Caesar. Would these ungodly men have felt no awe? I
suggest they would have been overcome with awe and with terror as well.
There will be nothing but awe when we see the glorified Son of God at the last
moment of this universe's existence. This awe will not fill the hearts of only
believers and disciples, but also the unbeliever, the doubter, the hypocrite,
the blasphemer, the mocker. No tough guys that day! There will be awe and terror
on the part of some, and awe and joy on the part of others. Let Jesus be your
Lord and Savior. Let that final moment be one of victory. Obey His gospel and
live for Him. Your eternal blessings are waiting. Yes, "For in due season we
shall reap."
By Jon W. Quinn
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From Expository Files 10.12 , December 2003
