Written in Heaven

In the aftermath of the passing of Tim Keller, John Piper shared about his most recent interactions with Keller.  And the upshot was to put a spotlight on Jesus’ words in Luke 10:20:

“Nevertheless, do not rejoice in this, that the spirits are subject to you, but rejoice that your names are written in heaven.”

In the context, Jesus is hearing reports from his disciples upon their return from a mission assignment.  He had sent them out two by two (v 1) to pray (v 2) and speak God’s peace to the people (v 5).  They were to beware of spiritual opposition (v 3) yet still step out empty-handed (v 4), trusting the Father to meet their needs.  Jesus told them to heal the sick and proclaim God’s reign (v 9).  Of course, not everyone would welcome Jesus’ represent­atives (v 10)—but that was not to stop them (besides, God’s justice would be served in the end, vv 12-15).

So how does it go?  The disciples “returned with joy” (v 17):  “Even the demons are subject to us in your name.” Jesus affirms them in their zeal for mission (vv 18-19):  the world needs the gospel and Christ-followers need to share what they have (10:8).

But Jesus also puts everything in perspective in v 20:  Yes, take delight in spiritual victories; let the spread of God’s fame move you to worship.  Yes, be grateful for today’s advances.  But do not let ministry gains go to your head.  Rather, stay humble, recognize your dependence on God for “life and breath and everything” (Acts 17:25), and remember that you don’t have anything that wasn’t given to you by God in the first place (1 Corinthians 4:7).

What matters most is being known and loved by the Lord forever.  Your résumé, your achievements, your possessions—such things fade like vapor as we fix our eyes on Jesus and rest in his eternal love.  This life is short—even if it’s long.  So first things first:   trust in Jesus … and rejoice that your name is “written in heaven”!