The Resurrected Body - Part 3

The Resurrected Body – Part 3

Submitted by Thomas Stidl

         At the last judgment, there will be rewards given to individuals who have exhibited outstanding virtue through horrendous temptations and persecutions.  These rewards are given in the forms of crowns.  Jesus will acknowledge our heroic virtue before all humanity.  Then the people on his right will be invited to enter the eternal kingdom of God while the people on his left will be banished to hell along with Satan and his demonic spirits. 

         What exactly are these rewards or crowns that some of us will receive?  They are known as the Imperishable Crown, the Crown of Rejoicing, the Crown of Righteousness, the Crown of Glory, and the Crown of Life.  The Imperishable Crown is a crown that will not deteriorate under any circumstances.  It is undefiled.  Those who receive this crown are disciplined in all things.  It may take a long lifetime for us to qualify for this crown, but, if you receive it, all the trials and tribulations will be worth the reward.  The Crown of Rejoicing will be given to all of us who experience suffering.  The Book of Revelations tells us that God will wipe every tear from our eyes and that death and suffering will cease to exist.  The Crown of Righteousness is awarded to souls who look forward with eager waiting for the Coming of Christ, and who love the Lord with their whole heart, mind, body, and soul.

         The Crown of Glory is crown given to those for those who long for or love the appearance of Jesus in the clouds of heaven.  The Crown of Life is reserved for those who keep the commandments, obey Jesus, and remain faithful to Him.  What are his commandments?  They are to love God with our whole being and love our neighbor as ourselves. 

         What are we to do after receiving these crowns?  If we receive these crowns, we will be extremely grateful for these crowns and humbled by their gifting.  If we take a cue from the elders in the Book of Revelations we will joyfully lay these crowns at the feet of Jesus stating our humble un-worthiness to wear these crowns.  The reason that we are given these crowns is the grace given to us by our Divine Savior.  All our good deeds belong to Jesus by his supplied grace.

        Until next time, Laus Tibi, Christe.  Deo Gratias.  Gloria Tibi Domini.  Praise be to God.  See you in Paradise. Amen.