“Nevertheless, do not rejoice in this, that the spirits are subject to you, but rejoice that your names are written in heaven.” – Luke 10:20
The disciples were flying high because of the extraordinary power Jesus had given them. Then He took them by surprise with simple good news. They were thrilled to be miraculously healing people and casting out demons. Ordinary people like them suddenly had authority over demons! They were thrilled about all they could do for God and for people. It was truly an exciting moment.
Then Jesus reminded them of something even more special and more important…. Their faith in Him meant their names were written in heaven. They were in God’s Book of Life. They had an eternal future in God’s presence waiting for them after death. As great as their impact on the world was going to be, there was something even more delightful ahead!
If you’re a follower of Jesus, if you’ve trusted in Him, then this simple, wonderful statement is also true of you. Jesus’ instruction applies to you. Whether you’ve done extraordinary, attention-getting things for God’s Kingdom or simply serve quietly and faithfully year after year, don’t rejoice in what you’ve done or how God’s used you. Rejoice that God always loves you, has fully forgiven, embraced, and adopted you by His grace, and that your name is written in heaven.
As good as your earthly accomplishments for the Kingdom may be, the greater joy is that you will be loving, serving, worshiping, and enjoying Christ’s company and feasting at His table for billions and billions of years to come!