God’s ultimate goal in creation is to manifest his glory in the salvation of his elect through judgment against sin. He displays this most at the cross of Jesus Christ, where glory, salvation, and judgment meet. You are a part of that goal, whether by your salvation by grace through faith in Christ and everlasting enjoyment of God as his renewed image-bearer, or by your damnation by justice on account of your sins. The believer’s purpose and meaning in life revolves around doing God’s will by his grace, for his glory, in the good of his creatures.

Joel Beeke, born in Kalamazoo, MI, is a professor of systematic theology and homiletics at Puritan Reformed Theological Seminary and a pastor at Heritage Reformed Congregation. When not engaged in academic rigor he enjoys talking and walking with his wife, family nights, and playing with his grandchildren.