5 Some of his disciples were remarking about how the temple was adorned with beautiful stones and with gifts dedicated to God. But Jesus said, 6 "As for what you see here, the time will come when not one stone will be left on another; every one of them will be thrown down."
While Jesus in our verses for today refers to the coming literal destruction of God’s temple, I am reminded of Peter’s words to us as well regarding the future total destruction of both the heavens and the earth:
10 But the day of the Lord will come like a thief. The heavens will disappear with a roar; the elements will be destroyed by fire, and the earth and everything in it will be laid bare. 11 Since everything will be destroyed in this way, what kind of people ought you to be? You ought to live holy and godly lives 12 as you look forward to the day of God and speed its coming. That day will bring about the destruction of the heavens by fire, and the elements will melt in the heat. 13 But in keeping with his promise we are looking forward to a new heaven and a new earth, the home of righteousness. 2 Peter 3:10-13 (NIV)
God’ timing is interesting is it not? While what we may perhaps consider slowness on His part, God considers patience and forbearance as Peter alludes to in the verses just prior to the ones above:
8 But do not forget this one thing, dear friends: With the Lord a day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years are like a day. 9 The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance. 2 Peter 3:8-9 (NIV)
Have you ever noticed God’s timing and ways to be much different from our own (that’s probably the biggest understatement of the century!)? I want things to happen yesterday – I often lean toward the microwave mentality – the quick fix, the quick growth so to speak! Long range planning and goal setting are a bit laborious and tedious for me! Therefore, I am in the ever going of process of learning to embrace with joy His ways and His timing – leaning into them so to speak – as for my very best. He is always working on something in my life conforming me to the image of His Son. Indeed, all who claim faith in Jesus and who are still walking with feet of clay on this earth are in this same process. I have discovered throughout Scripture that it takes years for God to prepare His vessels for use. The wonderful blessing for us all is the certain assurance of God’s love for us as demonstrated by the cross of Christ and God’s plan for our lives given through the promises of Scripture. We can trust God. There is no fear in this love as to His motive behind each circumstance that He will always be working things out for our ultimate best – our good, His glory. Remember, we are most satisfied when He is most glorified. He is worthy of all praise. Many scripture come to mind as I write this but a few speak out clearly:
8 But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us. Romans 5:8 (NIV)
11 For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Jer 29:11 (NIV)
28 And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. 29 For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the likeness of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brothers. 30 And those he predestined, he also called; those he called, he also justified; those he justified, he also glorified. Romans 8:28-30 (NIV)
As believers we have been justified by the blood of Jesus looking forward to the consummation of our glorification. Paul tells us in Colossians:
3 For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God. 4 When Christ, who is your life, appears, then you also will appear with him in glory. Col 3:3-4 (NIV)
“Never be afraid to trust an unknown future to a known God.” Corrie Ten Boom
“It is not my ability, but my response to God’s ability, that counts.” Corrie Ten Boom