The sheer beauty, craftsmanship, and history behind the ruins of castles, mansions, and churches is inspiring. They were once symbols of power and prestige for royalty and religious authorities. Now, they stand as a reminder that all earthly power, authority, and works fade. Despite being built to last, they will fade into ruins. They serve as a reminder of our impermanence and futility of earthly works. There is wisdom we can glean from these ancient giants.
“People may spend their whole lives climbing the ladder of success only to find, once they reach the top, that the ladder is leaning against the wrong wall.”
The wisdom—and wit—of Thomas Merton.
Walls and Ladders
We can work full-time for the church, but it doesn’t mean we do that work for God. We build heavenly works that last when we purpose to lean that proverbial ladder to the throne. Then, our efforts bring us closer to Him. This is how He becomes king. As He rules and reigns in our lives our works are built in the kingdom of eternity. We can work very hard to craft our edifices that will barely last a generation after we have passed away. Today’s poem discusses the merits and futility of our works, both heavenly and earthly.
The world is passing away, and with it its lusts [the shameful pursuits and ungodly longings]; but the one who does the will of God and carries out His purposes lives forever.
1 John 2:17
Prayer
Lord, I ask that you give me wisdom to build my life on your rock. I don’t want to waste my time creating something that will be gone soon after I depart this earth. I want to build in heaven as I build on earth. Give me wisdom and focus, and change my heart to desire your will so that I may build structures that last eternity. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
