12 “Look, I am coming soon! My reward is with me, and I will give to each person according to what they have done.
Revelation 22:12
We did an enjoyable activity at our recent Leaders’ Gathering. We were given a small painting board, brush and colours. We were asked to draw something that represents our service to the Lord. Different leaders were led to draw different things. Some drew a shepherd. Others drew a musical instrument, the children they were serving, and more.
I was led to draw a crown. It was not a crown of thorns. I painted the crown gold, adorned with jewels. To me, the crown symbolizes that risen Christ, seated at the right hand of God, who will come again. I wrote the words, “I serve a glorified King.”
Serving the Lord, especially after many years, can take a mental, emotional and physical toil. Christian service calls for long obedience and endurance. What motivates us to keep going? The Lord Jesus said in Revelation 22:12,
“Look, I am coming soon! My reward is with me, and I will give to each person according to what they have done (NIV).
Advent is a season that reminds us of Jesus’ incarnation to save us. But it also points us to a future reality – Jesus will come again. I drew the crown to remind myself of Christ's return. Jesus also tells us that He comes with His reward. He will recompense us for our service to Him. Our labour in the Lord will not be in vain.
Serving Jesus will be worth it. May the promise of His coming be the strength and encouragement of our faith and service to the Lord.
Rev Srimal Marthenis
Ang Mo Kio Presbyterian Church
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