AP

ETERNITY

For thus says the One who is high and lifted up, who inhabits eternity, whose name is Holy: “I dwell in the high and holy place, and also with him who is of a contrite and lowly spirit, to revive  the spirit of the lowly, and to revive the heart of the contrite
(Isaiah 57:15).

As the evening sky over Sydney Harbour was once more set ablaze with fireworks, music and lightshows, I was reminded of the festivities that gained global attention some 23 years ago. It was the turn of the century, the beginning of a new millennium, and as around a million people gathered on the foreshore to ring in the new year the Sydney Harbour Bridge was lit up in bright, copperplate, gold lettering:

The word stood as a reminder of the message that had been emblazoned on almost every street corner from the early 1930’s to the late 1960’s. The distinctive copperplate script had been the work of Arthur Stace who, having been inspired by the preaching of Rev. John G. Ridley, set about making that word known to “everyone in the streets of Sydney”.

            That the word “eternity” could become the motto for the year 2000 is a fact to be marvelled at. Sadly however, what ought to be the great victory cry of those who are in Christ had become a personal badge of pride for those who would carry on. For far too many the word “eternity” evokes Stoic ideas of independence and perseverance, a sense that immortality is in our own two hands. It is a way of forgetting the past and looking to the future with a hope that is grounded upon nothing more than the lusting for something better.

            What this powerful word ought to do is establish for us a contrast. Compared to eternity, our lives are a vapour that appears for a moment and is gone (James 4:14). Our lives are a shadow, which may for a time be lengthened but will eventually be swallowed up in darkness (Psalm 102:11). The passing of time ought not to increase our self-confidence but remind us of how quickly the end comes into view. “Eternity” then ought to be for us a warning of what yet awaits, and a reminder to get our house in order while it is still today (Hebrews 3:13). “Eternity” is not a call to endure but to repent.

            So as another year passes by, and as eternity draws ever nearer, may our focus this year not be on how we might make things better but on how Christ makes all things new. May our resolutions not be to make something more of ourselves; rather may we resolve to know Christ and to make Him known.

– Shane Gooch