For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us. For the creation waits with eager longing for the revealing of the sons of God. For the creation was subjected to futility, not willingly, but because of him who subjected it, in hope that the creation itself will be set free from its bondage to decay and obtain the glorious freedom of the children of God. Rom. 8:18-21
Dear heavenly Father, first of all, please know that I don’t presume on the privilege of calling you Abba, Father. What an unparalleled privilege and peace-fueling joy. It’s only because of the work of Jesus that I freely address you by such an intimate name.
This is such an encouraging Scripture, Father. What is joy I feel, trying to envision the future you’ve secured for us, your beloved children, and for the whole creation—a future that puts all present suffering, decay, and bondage into perspective. Oh, that I might know more of the “eager longing” for “glorious freedom” that marked Paul’s life, and permeates your creation.
“Glorious freedom”—may those two words be tattooed on my heart, become like an irrepressible melody in my spirit, and serve as the lens through which I understand brokenness and suffering. We’re destined, not just “freedom” but “glorious freedom“—a freedom filled with your glory!
Father, open the eyes of my heart wider, to behold the “glory to be revealed” in us and in creation. Heal me of my spiritual myopia and chronic astigmatism. Get the perpetual morning “gunk” out of my eyes. Do gospel laser surgery so that I can behold these things more clearly, and live and love accordingly.
In the midst of the world’s decay, I want to be for the praise of your delight. In the frustrations of creation, let me savor the firstfruits of your salvation. Rather than being weighed down by present sufferings, I want to be hope-filled by future liberation.
Thank you for not despising our longings for life in the new heaven and new earth. May they grow more and more intense. So very Amen I pray, in Jesus’ strong and saving name.
