Read: Romans 8:18-25 NRSV
I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory about to be revealed to us. For the creation waits with eager longing for the revealing of the children of God; for the creation was subjected to futility, not of its own will but by the will of the one who subjected it, in hope that the creation itself will be set free from its bondage to decay and will obtain the freedom of the glory of the children of God. We know that the whole creation has been groaning in labour pains until now; and not only the creation, but we ourselves, who have the first fruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly while we wait for adoption, the redemption of our bodies. For in hope we were saved. Now hope that is seen is not hope. For who hopes for what is seen? But if we hope for what we do not see, we wait for it with patience.
Scripture tells us that creation is “groaning,” waiting for the children of God to be revealed. Why? Because when we act like Jesus, creation starts to heal. Just as God used the physical hands of the exiles to place actual stones in the wall of Jerusalem, He uses our hands to bring actual healing to this world.
When we seek justice, care for the poor, steward the earth, and create beauty, we are acting as the “Body of Christ.” We are the physical evidence of Jesus’ victory. Our mission isn’t just to wait for heaven, but to bring the goodness of heaven down to earth right now through our actions.
Pray: Lord, use my hands today. Whether at work, at home, or in my neighborhood, let me be a physical demonstration of Your desire to heal and restore.
