Movies used to end with “The End” scrolling across the screen. Now it sometimes just goes to the credits. We come to the end of the epistle or letter to the Romans believed to have been authored by Paul. He is writing to introduce himself and his beliefs before an anticipated visit. It is a very systematic presentation of the tenants of Christianity and a defense for its universal invitation to people of all tribes and countries. Abraham believed God’s promises before Moses and Mosaic Law had even been given. Abraham’s faith was credited to him as righteousness before any actions. Likewise we are justified by faith as a gift from a God who desires relationship and partnership with us. It is a gift as all of us are sinners. Can we write, “The End”? Paul signs off his letter with these words,
27 to the only wise God be glory forever through Jesus Christ! Amen.
The end of the story is not about us and our getting to go to heaven. The end of the story is about the glory to goes to God. God is telling us his story and his desire as he has worked with his creation. The end will be glory. Plus there is the hint of eternity in the word “forever.” We talk about what that might look like but we don’t know. This is not “the end,” but only the beginning of another phase. There is a sequel. But we will only experience that sequel under the authorship of Jesus Christ. We don’t know when that will come out but we do know it will and God will be glorified.
Of course, endings are on my mind as I process the death and entrance of my husband into that next reality. “Now” is so real with all its challenges but “then” is coming. Let’s just spend a few moments thanking God for a future with a hope that unfolds to his glory! Blessings.
On the Way to Wonder 