We will one day receive an everlasting crown from our Heavenly Father that will never wear out.
[As to what remains] henceforth there is laid up for me the [victor’s] crown of righteousness [for being right with God and doing right], which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me and recompense me on that [great] day—and not to me only, but also to all those who have loved and yearned for and welcomed His appearing (His return).
~2 Timothy 4:8 AMPC
Hunting yard sales is a perfect activity for sunny summer mornings. Tables loaded with unique offerings bid passersby to browse items such as vintage dishes that once served up yummy meals or colorful clothing to revive in a backyard play. Unexpected surprises await those willing to take time for a treasure hunt.
One recent sale featured a variety of items, but a specific piece caught my eye. A flip top box held a treasure nestled among the castoffs—a jeweled crown. Its dangling price tag read $30. Had its former owner won a beauty competition? I imagined a regal young lady holding a bouquet of red roses while walking the stage before her admirers.
This bejeweled tiara, once a valued symbol of victory had been left sitting on some junk room shelf to gather dust. Perhaps the owner no longer viewed the achievement as important.
Worldly crowns are like that. They quickly lose their sparkle as the crowd moves on to the next big thing. Awardees forget those long practices, memorized dance steps and acceptance speeches. It’s all gone in a flash. Crowns people bestow on us tend to fade quickly.
Athletes who rise to the top of the sports world receive trophies for their abilities. We crown entertainers viewed as the best at their craft with awards of achievement. Winners hold their titles until someone else runs faster, jumps further, or hits the notes higher and better.
We will one day receive an everlasting crown from our Heavenly Father that will never wear out. It is incorruptible, meaning it won’t tarnish or lose its value. This royal diadem is a gift from God that will last forever.
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