Probably everyone who will read these lines has seen a photo of the Acropolis in Athens with the famed Parthenon. This ancient temple has been a part of the Athens' skyline for about 2500 years.

In clear sunlight its columns almost seem to shine. They remind us of the reward that Jesus Christ promised to faithful members of the congregation in ancient Philadelphia:

"He who overcomes, I will make him a pillar in the temple of My God, and he shall go out no more" (Revelation 3:12).

Many of the Parthenon's pillars continue to fulfill their original function.

By contrast, pillars that no longer fulfill their function are likely just part of a ruined building! Their failure to fulfill their function contributed to the collapse of the structure.

What do pillars do? They transfer the weight of the upper structure directly to the foundation of the structure. We might say that they pass on the weight and in so doing contribute to the stability of the structure.

The only true foundation that we as Christians have is Jesus Christ: "No other foundation can anyone lay than that which is laid, which is Jesus Christ" (1 Corinthians 3:11).

This life serves as a preparation for our future responsibility in the kingdom of God. Whoever wants to be a pillar in that future temple of God will practice in this life by transferring the weight of life's trials and concerns to our true foundation: "Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time, casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you" (1 Peter 5:6-7).

With these thoughts I wish us all a rewarding Sabbath!