Hello dear friends. So much is going on right now. Riots, protests, unrest, fear, and anger— it can be a bit overwhelming. I wanted to take some time to observe, reflect, and take it in (no pun intended) before I posted anything. After lots of prayer and talking with loved ones and reading lots of thoughts on things going on, here is what I concluded— these things are going to happen before Jesus returns.
Followers of Christ have or should have at least read through the book of Revelation. However, do we really take time to understand it? When Jesus tells us of all of the false doctrine that will spread, the unrest and conflict in the world, and the pestilences that will afflict mankind, do we really acknowledge this sad reality?
No, I am not trying to be a doomsday prophet (I’m not too worried about June 21st besides the fact it’s a day closer to my end-of-the-month bills being due). No man knows the day or hour of the Lord’s return (Matthew 24:36). However, God gave us the signs so we would know when it is near. What I want you all to think about is, are you ready? Do you really know Christ? Have you accepted him as the Lord of your life? Are you following after him with all of your heart, soul, mind, and body? Are you answering the calling he has given you for your life? Are you fulfilling the purpose and plan he has for you? Reflect on that for a moment.
We need to keep all of these questions in mind, especially now. In times of despair and distress, we need to shine brightest. We can only do that by having the light of the Lord living and radiating in us. Now is not the time to be apathetic, lazy, or crippled by fear or anxiety. The people of God must show up in full force to stand up against wrongdoing in all of its forms and to do good in this world by our love for others. We must uphold our values and standards, regardless of what the world thinks. May we draw people to God by bringing glory to his holy name and loving him and others with everything we got.
I know it’s tough and it’s downright frightening. But, remember the perils of the faithful who went before us. They stuck to the truth of the gospel, even in the fact of persecution, immense suffering, and even death. The same God who was with them is with us. So take heart and fight that good fight. Do not cave to the evil in this world or sacrifice your faith for popularity. Bring peace where there is conflict, bring understanding where there is distrust and confusion, bring a sound mind to where there is fear and anxiety, bring holiness to where there is evil, and bring love to where there is contempt. May we live keeping in mind that Jesus is returning and that horrible things will and must come to pass and that we must remain faithful to the calling he set before us.
Lastly, I want to encourage you all to remain committed to service to others during this time of great need. Here is a link to the Corporation for National and Community Service to find volunteer opportunities near you.
Peace be with you all, I love you. See you again soon.
“The Lord gets His best soldiers out of the highlands of affliction.”
―
Image by Gerd Altmann from Pixabay
Take it in 