“All people are like grass, and all their glory is like the flowers of the field; the grass withers and the flowers fall, but the word of the Lord endures forever.” 1 Peter 1: 24-25a
If we are honest, we all long for security in this life. We crave permanence, are fearful of change, and are drawn to the “forevers”. We desperately desire relationships that will stand the test of time, and freak out when we realize our poor bodies are slowly transforming into an older version of who we are!
Why do we long for the “forevers”?
There is something within, something ingrained in our very DNA that yearns for eternity. The thought of our fleeting life here on earth is not enough- there must be more! And there is more, so very much more…
“…he has put eternity into man’s heart…”(Ecclesiastes 3:11)
Our God is the beginning and the end, Alpha and Omega, eternal, everlasting. As Christians, we are born again of imperishable seed- nothing will cause it to decay or fall or be taken away. God’s Word is ETERNAL.
Think of the flower- the jewel of the garden, simple and extravagant, so magnificent in bloom yet its transient beauty is tragically short-lived. We revel in their show of vivid color and alluring scent, but ultimately, FLOWERS FALL.
This verse tells us that we are like grass, and our glory is like the flower. It might be beautiful and even breathtaking for a moment, but in the end it will fall. We should be facing each day with eternity in mind, secure in the knowledge that our futures are guaranteed in Christ. Our brief opportunity for glory here and now should be used for Him, showering praise and worship on the only One who is worthy.
I long for thoughts of eternity to effect my decisions, my dreams, and my day-to-day existence. I want to cling to the Word of the Lord with all my being, because it endures beyond everlasting.
The falling flowers pale in comparison when I consider the spectacular beauty of the “forever” that awaits me.
CHRIST’S glory fills eternity,
Eternity which was and is;
And all eternity to be
Will shine with His undying praise;
To Him who lives but once was slain
Be honour, power, and praise, Amen.
