They Had Done It

by R. Darke, Victoria, B.C., Canada | Category: General | Feb 1989

A sense of achievement, expressed in these words, was shared by Moses and the people of Israel. Without question they had accomplished a remarkable work of beauty and usefulness. It was the tabernacle in the wilderness. The people were united in their generous giving of the materials which were needed; Bezalel and Oholiab were unstinting in their skilful endeavours; and the wise women spun and spun patiently in their tents to provide the blue, purple, scarlet, and fine linen. The day came when the work was finished. "And Moses saw all the work, and, behold, they had done it; as the LORD had commanded, even so had they done it: and Moses blessed them" (Ex. 39:43).

In a work of far greater importance and impact, the atoning death of our Saviour, similar words were used as those by Moses. They were written by David in his prophetic psalm of Messiah's sufferings and death. It concludes with these triumphant words: "He hath done it" (Ps. 22:31). Tetelestai! is the corresponding Greek expression used by the Lord (John 19:30): "it is finished".

At the end of all things, after the heaven and earth have fled away to be replaced by the new, and new Jerusalem descends as an adorned bride, John is told to write: "It is done" (Rev. 21:6 AV).

Beloved, in the light of these things, each one of us in the house of God today needs to be reminded that we have a work of importance to be completed for our Lord and Master. Just think how wonderful it will be, before entering His presence, to say: "I have done it... it is done." Is this how Paul felt just before his departure? He said: "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the course, I have kept the faith" (2 Tim. 4:7). "He had done it" could be a most fitting commendation.

R. Darke, Victoria, B.C., Canada | Feb 1989
General