“And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that will never fade away” (1 Peter 5:4).
The crown of glory is not a reward, for Jesus taught us that the best we can do is to simply be obedient. The crown of glory is the eternal life He has won for us from the cross. Pride is what has brought sin into the world, so do not think in these terms, but in humility know that your salvation is completely dependent upon our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. By and through Him alone is all hope.
LORD, You have called all who believe out of a downward spiral into an abyss to be united with Christ in order that the One who descended may ascend to show the way for us all. Turn my eyes to Jesus and show me His glory, the glory of the only Begotten, and remind me that my hope is not in who I am, but in who You are. Lead me in the way of everlasting life.
Lord Jesus, You have come in order that we may have life abundantly and live freely. Help me to understand what this means. Guide me in Your goodness to know that in You alone is all hope. It was in You, through You and for You that all things were made. Lead me in the right way, Lord, so that I may live into the hope and promise You give me through the salvation You have prepared before me. Amen.
