And not only the creation, but we ourselves, who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly as we wait eagerly for adoption as sons, the redemption of our bodies.
Romans 8:23 (ESV)
I met the woman who became my wife about 42 years ago. We started dating and getting to know one another. A few months later, we got engaged. We were not married yet, but she wore my ring as a sign of our engagement and upcoming marriage. And the anticipation built ever greater as that day approached when we would be joined together. We did not really know what to expect, but we yearned for it.
And that, in a sense, is what Paul is expressing in this verse. I entered into a relationship with God over 50 years ago and am, in a sense, wearing an engagement ring (the first fruits of the Spirit). My future is sure, although not yet realized. All I can do now is look forward, eagerly awaiting (groaning inwardly) that day when my adoption is complete.
Paul uses the idea of adoption here rather than marriage, but the idea is the same. As believers, we have been adopted and are children of God. But what we have now is just a taste of what awaits us. And so we eagerly look forward in anticipation to what is to come.
And that involves the redemption of our bodies. My body is growing old and tired. It will eventually give out. But that is not the end. My body will be redeemed, transformed into an imperishable and immortal body (1 Cor. 15:53). All the aches and pains I know now will be gone.
Until that day comes, I will seek to serve my Lord as best I can. But at the same time, I look forward to and anticipate what that glorious day will bring.
