On Opera News – online, a writer corrected those who normally use ‘Call to Glory’ on posters and other publications as a way of saying good bye to their loved ones who have passed away. The writer added that, “In the incident of making or bidding a farewell to a deceased love one, the correct phrase to use is ‘Called to Glory’. That means, it should be stated in its past tense.” While it is important for us to take note of the writer’s position, I do not intend to prove wrong any one who has used ‘Call to Glory’ in obituary announcement, but to highlight how God has called His children to glory whether alive or dead.
“According as his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue..” (2nd Peter 1:3)
This implies that not every one who has passed away is called to glory because Jesus declared that He will say to some people – alive or dead, when He comes again to depart from Him into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels (See Matthew 25:41).
The glory journey begins when a believer accepts Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. Jesus said that He gives the glory God has given Him to those who receive Him as Lord and Savior (See John 17:22; Colossians 1:27b). God’s glory is His awesome presence in the life of a believer. This glory is meant to differentiate His children from unbelievers at all times – in crisis, famine, hardship and every other unpleasant situation (See Isaiah 60:2). God’s glory sets apart the believer in all spheres of life – making them problem solvers while adding value to individuals, families, organizations and territories.
Man lost the glory of God when Adam and Eve disobeyed Him – for all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God (Romans 3:23). But when Jesus came, He restored God’s glory.
“Moreover, whom He predestined, those He also called; and whom He called, those He also justified; and whom He justified, those He also glorified.” (Romans 8:30)
Hallelujah! What a privilege for the Christian believer to receive God’s glory. God has given His children His glory and they will reign in glory even after their time on earth is over as they will reign with Christ in Heaven. If you want God to share His glory with you, accept Jesus Christ into your heart today. Say this prayer of salvation: Lord Jesus, I accept that I am a sinner. Forgive me of my sins. Come into my heart. I receive You as my Lord and Savior and I receive Your eternal life. I believe that You came, died for me and rose again to save me. I declare that I am born again and that I am the glory of God. Amen!
By Sunday Omori
HEM Int'l 