The Deception of Glory

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We human creatures have a fear that we’re going to be forgotten, and if we’re forgotten then our lives are meaningless. Somehow, in some way, we want to leave a legacy.

We seek glory and fame.

Benet Hill Monastery, Black Forest, Colorado

Benet Hill Monastery, Black Forest, Colorado

You’re probably thinking, “not me! I could care less about reaching Hollywood fame!” That’s probably true. I’m with you. I really don’t need to have my name plastered in the tabloids.

Yet we don’t want to be forgotten either.  We’re like the religious leaders described by John.

“Nevertheless, many even of the authorities believed in him, but for fear of the Pharisees they did not confess it, so that they would not be put out of the synagogue; for they loved the glory that comes from man more than the glory that comes from God.” John 12:42-43 English Standard Version

The authorities didn’t want to make waves and take a chance they’d be kicked out of the synagogue. They were attracted to Jesus. They believed in Jesus, but only to a certain point. They didn’t want their legacy tarnished.

For most of us, chances are that all we’ll be someday is a picture in someone’s genealogy book, but not in God’s eyes.  We are never forgotten by God.  Jesus sought only the glory of his Father and through Jesus our legacy is in heaven.

Does that mean that we twiddle our thumbs until we die, or Jesus returns?  No.  It simply means that our life’s focus is not to make a name for ourselves, but that we live in such a way that others might join us in the glory of heaven.

Copyright 2015

About Douglas Brauner

I'm a retired pastor, blogger, and photographer. (Oh, and did I mention husband and father?) I encourage people who wrestle with life to focus on Christ so that they experience hope and joy on life's treadmill.