Not One Stone

Some of his disciples were remarking about how the temple was adorned with beautiful stones and with gifts dedicated to God. But Jesus said, "As for what you see here, the time will come when not one stone will be left on another; every one of them will be thrown down." (Luke 21:5-6)

Do you ever ask yourself if what you're doing to honor God is really honoring Him?

Not that I'm saying you're not.

But think about it. Is building a grand cathedral or adding on to a church or taking a vow of poverty an honor to God?

It totally depends on the heart behind the action. I believe that some people truly wished to honor the Father of All Creation by building immense cathedrals in an attempt to be worthy of His presence. I also believe that the second people started putting their own names on parts of that cathedral they forgot what the original intent was.

I believe we can all fall prey to this. Think about worship music. Whether it's a choir, a worship band, or one guy with a guitar, there is always the possibility that in the attempt to honor God and lead people into worship it sudddenly becomes a show, and the focus moves away from God and more into pagentry.

When the disciples commented on the beauty of the temple, Jesus spoke end-time words. He said that not one stone would remain on top of another out of the entire temple. Because when Christ returns, He will turn the world on its head, and nothing made for human glory will be able to withstand His presence.

I believe that's true of all things, not just tangible. Remember Matthew 6:19-21:

"Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also."

"Treasures on earth" could be money, and could be accolades, a special pew that you paid for, a fancy car, influence with those in power... all sorts of things that do not translate to Heavenly riches.

So be aware of what you are building up on earth, because that is for yourself. Keep your focus on God and the Crucified Christ and you will build up your storehouses in Heaven.