Building a city

They desire a better, that is, a heavenly country. Therefore God is not ashamed to be called their God. — Hebrews 11:16

For 41 years, New York’s Empire State Building enjoyed the distinction of being the world’s tallest building at 1,250 feet. Since then, others have passed it, including the 1,483-foot Petronas Twin Towers in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, and the 1,670-foot Taipei 101 building. The 2,657-foot Burj in Dubai to be completed in late 2009 will surpass those by far.

From ancient times, man has tried to distinguish himself through monuments of all kinds. It is still the dream of many today.

The writer to the Hebrews presents a better way to achieve significance. He noted that heroes of the faith never lost sight of the fact that they “were strangers and pilgrims on the earth” (Heb. 11:13). As a result, “God is not ashamed to be called their God, for He has prepared a city for them” (v. 16).

It is a fact of life that every monumental work will likely be surpassed. Even man’s biggest “successes” are fleeting. Our best efforts can bring only temporary honor, which all too soon will be eclipsed by the new and greater achievements of others. But those who invest their efforts in living to please God have a lasting city and an everlasting honor to look forward to God is even now preparing these for them.

Who is building your life? You or God? — C. P. Hia

True greatness does not lie with those

Who strive for worldly fame;

It lies instead with those who choose

To serve in Jesus’ name. — D. De Haan

READ: Hebrew 11:8-16

A solid foundation gives strength to a building and a life.

The Bible in one year:

• Isaiah 34-36

• Proverbs 25:15-28