“But we have this treasure in jars of clay, that the excellence of the power may be of God and not of us.” 2Corinthians 4:7
Recently, the world witnessed Susan Boyle, a middle age woman, from a poor part of England, embarrass her audience and judges by out-performing their very low expectations.
In a world focused on outward expressions of prestige, power, and pomp, while caring little for inward qualities of character, dignity, and humility the true gospel is viewed as the message of fools. The true Christian proclaims Christ as a substitute for sinners, a resurrection for the dead, and he is mocked or at least dismissed as a message for fools. However, the Christian who lives consistently the message he proclaims gains a degree of respect.
One day Christ will return to earth and put to silence the entire mocking crowd, and He will set forth the truth about sin, righteousness, and judgment. All those who gave themselves to Him, and who served Him willingly and affectionately will be rewarded for their God-given faith. No one will be laughing in that hour; the applause will arise for Christ and for him alone. All who have followed Christ will be seen as those who put on Christ, their sins covered by His blood, their weakness replaced by His strength, and their ignorance exchanged with His wisdom.
Life is so much better when we live for the applause of heaven?