Be faithful unto death, and I will give you the crown of life.

Revelation 2:10

Such a beautiful tree is the white-flowering Bradford pear! Though often used in landscaping, I was surprised to hear that it is an invasive species. A rural field trip convinced me; scattered haphazardly were Bradfords of varied sizes.

You may remember the Revelation 2:10 passage above from junior Confirmation days. It is useful for those with much life ahead of them or much life behind them. Just as the Bradford pear is beautiful, but invasive and fruitless, so are temptations of the devil, the world, and our flesh. Each season of our lives has its special derailing seductions. Stay on guard! The Triune God has won your crown of life. The promise is true. What a delight!

Harry Edenfield
Brownstown, MI

Dear Jesus, keep us faithful as you extend our crown. In your name we pray. Amen.

Reflect: What sins are tempting you? What defense has the Holy Spirit offered you?

Read: Matthew 4:1-10 and Hebrews 4:14-16