Immediately preceding my teenage years, a giant of a man attended our church. He was quiet and humble, despite his massive physique. You never saw him stand up, take the stage, or make a show of himself. However, he always seemed to be there quietly taking in what Brother Jack said and serving when there was a need. I found out that he had been a professional football player sustaining significant injuries that cut his career short and impacted his health. You would have never known it, because of his unassuming approach to everyone. One Sunday we were informed that he had passed on the day before. He was that Sunday’s object lesson in a sermon I will never forget. We were told how his family gathered around him during his last moments, and how he revived for a brief moment during the family’s anguish to tell them not to grieve, because “the bells have begun.” This humble giant’s cognizance of the welcoming ceremony in Heaven is forever etched in my mind.
Whenever I think about this gentle man I think of the church at Philadelphia. After leaving a position in the spotlight, he slipped quietly into the position of a common man with few resources, unlike the athletes of today. He, like the positive Philadelphians, had few assets who accomplished their tasks with quiet success. Both his and their testimony were strong because they kept their word. That loyalty was rewarded by a promise of eternal protection and deliverance by the Lord.
When Christ promised the Philadelphians protection with the “Key of David,” this was significant because the Jews of the city (Synagogue of Satan) claimed that the Kingdom of God belonged to them and them alone. The Christians at Philadelphia and any believer can be greatly encouraged as Christ identified himself as the true Messiah (3:7), and as one who controls access to the keys to our eternal kingdom. When he opens the door “no one can shut” it — and no one can prevent entry to those for whom he opens it.
The Lord had no negative comments about the church, not because they were perfect, but because they were focused on the eternal process. They were promised the crown of life (stephanos). This word refers to the wreath of victory awarded to winners of athletic contests. This would have been a meaningful word to the church in Philadelphia, as the city was famous for its athletic games. Their winning, optimistic, eternal spirit provided them with the motivation to faithfully care for each other and those around them. Their witness became highly visible and evident in a city of wickedness.
Here’s the point, kids. It doesn’t really matter where you live or who says what about you or your beliefs. God has chosen you as one of His elect. He has promised you he will be with you, protect you, provide for you, and give you eternal life — regardless of the circumstances you face and the fears those circumstances arouse. There is no greater security. Know that the bells ring now and eternally for you. Hum a happy tune. Make people wonder!
Love,
Dad