Wasn’t the tone of Paul’s close to Chapter 15 simply invigorating? Even though Paul did a brilliant job explaining the promise of resurrection, it’s still something no one has done, except Jesus. He has led the way and we simply wait our turn. We wait for our glorious transformation.
Whether we have already died or are still alive when Jesus returns, we will still rise with Jesus and receive the full transformation. As Paul said, “let me reveal to you a wonderful secret.” Who doesn’t like to be in on a great secret? I can remember how hard it was to keep the secret I had arranged for a surprise 50th birthday party for my husband David. It was quite the elaborate event with lots of moving parts to make it work. Nothing near the incredible, miraculous secret Paul talked about for those who will skip past death.
Paul had to be clear on that scenario for he believed Jesus’ return was soon. Thankfully, those words have helped many believers over the centuries, all waiting for Jesus’ return and not wanting to be stranded. Myself, I had forgotten Paul’s counsel to those who would be living at the time of Christ’s return.
Our resurrection bodies will last forever. I like that word, “immortal.” They won’t fall apart, sag, or get achy. The transformation is something only God’s power can do.
Our sinful selves will be washed and made clean. “For sin is the sting that results in death, and the law gives sin its power.” Think about that line for just a moment. It resonated with me to realize that God’s laws are what help us discern whether our behavior will be pleasing to God or sinful. No second guessing required! Through the lens of Scripture, we can see clearly when our behavior has fallen prey to sin. Doesn’t it follow, then, that the more we cover ourselves in the truth of God’s word, the better chance we’ll have at avoiding those sinful choices? It’s like a bonus transformation we can have right now by living in harmony with God’s will for our lives.
Romans 12:2 says, “Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect.” This is something we can do right now! Think about how you can make some changes in your life to follow the wisdom of this counsel. Is living in God’s will important to you?
One parting thought I felt very appropriate in today’s world. “Always work enthusiastically for the Lord, for you know that nothing you do for the Lord is ever useless.” There are a lot of things we could be doing each day. Clearly, doing something for the Lord is our best choice. We can do our jobs “enthusiastically” for the Lord, too. It’s all about attitude. Think about your schedule. Are you working for the Lord as you await your transformation?
Let’s pray …
Father God, I anxiously await the day of my transformation when I will be with you forever. While I wait, I pray for the strength and wisdom I need to make the best choices each day so that I glorify and bring honor to you. Thank you for the promise I can look forward to. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
