On May 16, 2012 Leslie H. Sabo Jr. was posthumously awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor for bravery and courage in action in Cambodia in 1970. The passage of time never diminishes gallantry and honor. Receiving an award and recognition is a heady experience. Watch the expressions on the faces of Oscar winners. How much more so it must be to be honored for bravery in the face of extreme danger.
Paul looked forward to receiving his reward. He wrote to Timothy, “There is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day–and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing.” One thing Paul knew for sure was his crown was a gift. In Romans he clearly speaks of his continual struggle with sin. His crown, our crown, is not something he or we have earned.
Have you ever received an award that you knew you did not deserve? In 1963 in college I won an oratorical contest. I was delighted because I very much needed the one hundred dollar prize. However, it was tainted. Another contestant was better than I was. I knew it and he knew it. This brings me to the crown of which Paul speaks. We don’t deserve it. Yet, it will not be tainted because we all know the worthy One wants us to have it. We all know that Jesus is the one worthy. We are the recipients of His love. When a gift comes from and with love it is forever special. His gracious gift to us does not take from Him but only adds to the illustriousness of His person.
Written by Roger Bothwell on May 17, 2012
Spring of Life Ministry, PO Box 124, St. Helena, CA 94574
Rogerbothwell.org