All three of today’s readings are heart searching and need to be read carefully and prayerfully.

First we have the extraordinary relationship Moses had with God, and we ponder what lies in the future for those who will experience meeting their Lord; will it be comparable to that of Moses in his “face to face” encounter? (see Exodus 33:11; 34:5,6,30,35). It was an exalted and exceptional relationship with God.

Psalm 90 is called, ‘A prayer of Moses’ and we ponder his perception of the eternity of God, “for a thousand years in your sight are but as yesterday when it is past …” (verse 4). Verse 12 is a personal challenge, “So teach us to number our days that we may get a heart of wisdom”. Psalm 91 says, of those who develop this “heart” that “you will only look with your eyes and see the recompense of the wicked. Because you have made the LORD your dwelling place … the Most High, (your) refuge – no evil shall be allowed to befall you …” (verses 8-10).

In 1 Corinthians 3 Paul says “we are God’s fellow workers. You are God’s field, God’s building … Let each one take care how he (or she) builds upon it. For no one can lay a foundation other than that which is laid, which is Jesus Christ … each one’s work will become manifest for the day will disclose it” (verses 9,10,13).

While “the day” that “will disclose it” is the day of resurrection, the signs are increasing that the climax of human life is fast approaching, bringing “that day” very near. Paul describes this time as “the day” that “will be revealed by fire, and the fire will test what sort of work each one has done. If the work that anyone has built on the foundation survives, he (or she) will receive a reward” (verses 13-15).

Let us make sure we are ready for “the day (that) will disclose” God’s approval (or disapproval) of the way we have lived our lives since we committed ourselves to build on the foundation that Jesus Christ laid: let us make sure we are ready with strength of faith as the climax of today’s world approaches and “the day” is here that discloses the full reality of God and His purpose with the earth – and, by His grace, an utterly wondrous involvement by ourselves.