Names Are Written

The seventy-two messengers returned from their trip.  I picture smiles on their faces, several high-fives, a few fist pumps, and a skip in many of their steps.  Those sent-by-Jesus workers of the harvest rejoiced  Luke explains.

Luke 10:17 (NIV)
The seventy-two returned with joy and said, “Lord, even the demons submit to us in your name.”

Jesus replies with an agreeable telling of His own great experiences of victory over spiritual darkness (including Satan's fall from heaven) and affirmation of the seventy-two's God-given powers.

Luke 10:18-19 (NIV)
He replied, “I saw Satan fall like lightning from heaven. I have given you authority to trample on snakes and scorpions and to overcome all the power of the enemy; nothing will harm you."

But, perhaps to our surprise, Jesus shifts the subject.  In doing so, He does not kill the party; but He does call for a different focus.

Luke 10:20 (NIV)
"However, do not rejoice that the spirits submit to you, but rejoice that your names are written in heaven.”

When I read those words, I "watch" as Jesus brings His students back to basics - wonderful basics.  He saw fit to remind them that the real cause of fist pumps and high fives is salvation.  Sure, spiritual warfare victories deserve a smile and a skip or two; but those victories hold not a candle to the glorious light of salvation.  Salvation is worth a party.

I like the way the Good News Translation translates the words of the psalmist...

Today is a good day for a party.  Take some time to be glad today.  Devote some time to happiness today.  If you are a Christian (a follower of Jesus), rejoice and be glad; be happy because Jesus has saved you and, therefore, written your name in heaven.

#ordinarylives