Psalm 102:25-27 (ESV) -- Of old you laid the foundation of the earth, and the heavens are the work of your hands. They will perish, but you will remain; they will all wear out like a garment. You will change them like a robe, and they will pass away, but you are the same, and your years have no end.

How old is the earth? This is a typical debate that happens in the world, even amongst Christians. People get caught up in trying to give their cases for why they think the world is either extremely old or extremely young. But there is a conversation that Christians ought to focus more on: the coming change to the world. 

Our passage today captures this reality for us. The psalmist writes “Of old you laid the foundation of the earth.” God created the heavens and the earth. He is responsible for galaxies, stars, and the earth. We are here as a result of His handiwork. He spoke and they existed. He continues speaking, and they continue to exist. 

But then the psalmist says “they will perish.” He continues, “they will wear out like a garment.” Why is this? Will it be because of global warming or some catastrophe that befalls the planet? No. They will perish and wear out like a garment because of sin. Sin has brought ruin on the earth. Creation groans and longs for redemption. The sin of man has brought destruction on the earth. The creation is under the bondage sin ushered in. But Jesus’ finished work at the cross and resurrection from the dead brings hope. One day all things will be made new. This earth will pass away, but a new, restored heavens and earth will descend. 

The psalmist says, “You will change them like a robe.” The Lord is going to dress the earth in new robes unstained from the curse of sin. Jesus’ return will usher us into this reality. For believers, we need to spend more time focused on this coming day. Our eyes should be looking forward to what awaits us, not backwards in debate over the age of the earth. This world will not always remain the way it is. Jesus has secured the victory, and the restoration of all things is at hand.

Reflection & Journal:
- In what ways has sin brought devastation to the earth?
- What does this passage teach us about the future of the creation?
- How should this truth shape our faith, expectations, and hopes?

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