Finished!

Today (Monday!), I requested the final piece of work that I have to complete in order to receive my M.Div. degree. This means that, within a couple of weeks, I should have completed the programme even ‘though I expect it to be some time later before I receive the diploma that will proclaim my achievement to all (well, to all who climb the stairway up to my study and studio!). I will endeavour to resist the temptation to run outside shouting about my success.

Of course, there are other situations when a person’s success is easily seen, and is observed by many. By this time tomorrow, millions will have watched the inauguration of Barack Obama as the 44th President of the United States of America; when an athlete competes, or a football team plays, supporters not only watch, but cheer encouragement to the object(s) of their support; film, and “pop”, stars are the recipients of much adulation by their adoring fans.

Almost 2,000 years ago, a Man completed the work that He had set out to accomplish. His success was very public, but was seen as defeat. There were crowds – but most of them were there to mock, or merely to watch the spectacle of yet another crucifixion. I wonder how many really understood His great shout (and it was a cry of triumph, not of submission to the inevitable) – “Tetelestai” (“Finished”). Yes, that Man was Jesus. In spite of the attacks, and the temptations, of the evil one, He had completed the work for which He had entered our human situation: taking upon His divine nature, our human flesh; leaving that dimension that we refer to as “heaven”, and entering the time/space continuum that is our experience; subjecting Himself to every temptation that we experience, yet without sinning.

When an athlete finishes the race, there may be a prize – but usually it is only for the first few to cross the finishing line; a team may end the season at the top of their particular league/group, and be rewarded accordingly. However, Jesus’ success was different. Because He accomplished His work, you and I may receive the reward! And it’s a reward that lasts, not just for a season, or even for a lifetime. It’s a reward that lasts through eternity – a personal relationship with the Creator God. Our part is to confess our own sinfulness, and accept His wonderful gift of salvation.

Success can be a strange thing – but I’m so glad that Jesus succeeded, in order that I might “… receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling …” me. (Phi.3:14). Have you received His gift? Have you?