Do you ever reminisce of the glory days? What are glory days? A time in the past that was regarded as being better than the present. The glory days of a carefree life as a young adult. The glory days of excelling above my peers in athletics in high school. The glory days of being recognized for my expertise in the workplace. The glory days.
Does the church ever reminisce of a glory day? I believe we do, as evidenced from the exuberant beginning at Pentecost – that dawning of the age of God’s church on earth.
The Holy Spirit falls upon the disciples. They begin declaring the Good News of Jesus in different languages. Peter explains the fulfillment of this prophecy in the outpouring of the Holy Spirit. “The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off – for all whom the Lord our God will call. (Acts 2:39)”
On that glorious day 3000 people were baptized, and 12 disciples became 12 pastors to 12 congregations of 250 people. Wow! They then “devoted themselves,” to the apostles’ teaching, to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer, where “awe came upon every soul.” They “had all things in common” gathering “day by day.” They “received food with glad and generous hearts,” while “praising God and having favor with all people.” And, “the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved. (Acts 2:47b)”
Is this the time to slip on rose colored glasses? Nope. The Holy Spirit gives us 3D glasses. We see the fiery vitality of God’s church in motion, and we long for the same.
But, reminiscing of glory days can trip us into falling into the “if only” trap. If only I paid attention in high school, I would have had greater prospects in life. If only I would have pursued my passion in life, I wouldn’t be lamenting this lifeless job. If only I would have made peace with my mom before she passed away. If only I didn’t get pregnant out of wedlock. If only I took Uber home from that party instead of driving home high in my own car.
“If only” is a self-destructive phrase. It despairs about the past, while being dissatisfied with the present. The “if only” phrase may even be accurate, but that doesn’t mean it’s profitable in your life at this time. Fortunately, as with its purpose – we can rest on the glory day of God’s church.
The teaching of the apostles. God’s Word is the light on our path. The light of truth, wisdom, insight and direction. Whenever we struggle, or have fallen into our “if only” trap, it is only Jesus’ words of life which frees us.
Fellowship. We are a part of a community of faith, where the word of comfort and concern from another is so vital. In fellowship we embrace each other, support each other, and are gladly accountable to each other.
The breaking of bread. This is the holy food of the Lord’s Supper. As taught by the apostles: “For whenever you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death until He comes. (1 Cor 11:26)” Our participation in the Lord’s Supper is about proclamation and anticipation. Proclaimed upon us, digested within us, the Lord’s Supper is our rescue and salvation paid by the death of Jesus, which then blesses us with the immortality of His resurrection. Holy Communion then anticipates the most glorious day of all: Jesus’ triumphal return.
Then our prayers ring with joyful hope: “Come, Lord Jesus come!” Our prayers are seasoned with the praise for His deliverance, which is a present reality – this glory day. Come, Lord Jesus – empower your church. Come, Lord Jesus – free those still entrapped in the darkness of sin and death. Come, Lord Jesus – animate our lives by the Holy Spirit to be your bodily presence in the world.
The dawning of God’s church proves that God’s end-time promises were fulfilled. The dwelling place of God is now with you, within you, all because the sinless and atoning death of Jesus paved the way for you to enjoy full access to His glory.
Thanks be to you, Holy Spirit. •
— By Pastor Neil Stern,
Grace Lutheran Church, Edmonton AB