There are books in heaven.
Well, figuratively.
First, there’s the scroll written on both sides with the 7 seals described in Revelation 5, with the 4 horses and riders of doom. Then there’s a ‘little book’ that John is told to eat in chapter 10.
Then, in chapter 20, there are lots of books. First, there is a large library of books recording the deeds of people by which they are judged. With these, there is another book, ‘The Book of Life.’ In it are recorded the names of those preserved for eternal life. Anyone whose name is not listed there is cast in a lake of fire.
As a college professor, I keep a gradebook that records the ‘deeds’ of my students – papers, projects, exams – and they are graded at semester’s end based on what is dutifully recorded in the book. I’m somewhat of a softie – blessed are the merciful – and I allow too much late work for my own good (or the students’ own good, some tell me – how does that teach them responsibility?). But even given the leniency, much of the late work never arrives and on the last day of class, in the Final Exam, I announce that the mercy has run out, no late work can be accepted, and Judgment Day has come.
Oh, the gnashing of teeth. After grades are submitted, I get pleading phone calls. “Can’t you please make it a C?”
Sorry. As in Revelation 20, “the books were opened, and they were judged according to their works, by the things which were written in the books.”
But the Book of Life is also opened. I held a similar version of it today in my hand at graduation ceremonies. I’m the fellow who reads aloud the names of graduates, whose names are recorded in the Program Book. When many of the names are called out, there is applause and there are hoots of joy from family members in the crowd. Students raise their arms triumphantly as they cross the stage to receive their diplomas. There are tears of gladness. Many have sacrificed and suffered reversals but there they are, the persevering ones, their names written in the book.
So I couldn’t help but think of the joy in heaven there will be when The Book of Life is opened and the names are read. I’m doing what I can to be sure my name is in there. How about you?
I agree with Sally, John, awesome post! Rev. 20 is a great reminder that we will always be held accountable for our deeds and actions. Thanks!
This is awesome! What a wonderful post. And as a fellow teacher (who also accepts too much late work and attends each yearly graduation)I can completely relate. Thanks.