To reflect on the Lord’s righteousness is to contemplate the laws which hold every facet of existence together. Whether physics, chemistry, biology, morality, society, or spirituality, every aspect of life’s good function derives from God’s good and righteous design.

His righteousness is the foundation of our hope. Any deviation from his good order corrupts the system of life. But perfect conformity to it ensures life can operate in perfect harmony. Under the mechanics of his righteousness, sickness and suffering have no place, society is governed by the selflessness of love, trust abounds, and relationships flourish. Things work. Life works.

This is why God abhors evil, and sinners can’t stand in his presence. He loves justice because he loves life operating in fairness and unity. Those who do not conform to his standard are not fit for his kingdom. But those who do measure up find their true home. The light of his face will shine on them.

The only one worthy of entering God’s presence on the merits of his own righteousness was Jesus. When Jesus ascended the mountain in Mark 9, he was illuminated with God’s radiance, declared to be God’s Son and described as being entirely pleasing to God. But through faith, we are bound to him, wrapped up in his very being, baptised into his death and resurrection. And so, through faith, we are declared righteous in him, justified, and worthy of a place.

In Christ, life works. I pray our God will conform us more and more into the image of his son, so we might enjoy the radiance of his glory and somehow demonstrate that to others.