Who’s On the List?
It may have already been published by the time this post goes live. It was said a while back that a certain list of names would be released at the beginning of the year, though no specific date and time were given. Many in the public have been holding their breath to see who is on there. We are told that the names will include many people known throughout the world, including some very high profile people in business and politics. But the names, we are told, will also include some who we do not know, from victims of terrible things to others who were involved in various ways.
As I have thought about the releasing of these documents–especially the names–it occurred to me that, when that finally happened, those whose names were made public and who were found to have done some awful things have had time to prepare. They have likely crafted statements (most likely with the help of lawyers and PR folks). Will they deny things? Will they simply take ownership and show contrition? Will they not say anything and seek to have the hubbub die down? Whatever their choice, it will be calculated because they have had quite a bit of time to prepare.
But that got me thinking about another list and another reaction, and it is one for which there will be no preparation, no lawyers, and no public relations consultant.
It is when each of us stands in judgment, and some will hear “depart from me,” and they will be shocked.
Jesus said that some will just begin to talk about all the wonderful things they did: “Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in Your name, and cast out demons in Your name, and do many mighty works in Your name?”
Still, they will be lost forever and hear “I never knew you” (Matthew 7:21-23).
Why? Because God knows more than any lawyer or DA or jury. He does not arbitrarily put people on a list. He knows their actions, yes, but He also knows their attitudes and motivations. He sees “every secret thing” (Ecclesiastes 12:14). What we can hide from other people cannot be hidden from Him.
So, on that great and final day, our names need to be on a list, but it is not one of shame or one to fear. It is the Lamb’s book of life. And if my name is there, then the only words I can think of to prepare to say are “thank you” to the One Who made it possible.
Are you on that list?
AUTHOR: Adam Faughn