Life as we knew it has certainly changed and will continue to do so. There is nothing wrong with change unless there is something wrong with change. Think about it. We live in a world where injustice, pandemics, murder, hatred, false prophets, and so much more is going on. And it will get worse. How do I know? The Bible says before the Lord returns there will be world-wide chaos and disorder will increase. Jesus said that there will be wars and rumors of wars, famines, pestilences, plagues, and earthquakes in various place. We see these things happening before our eyes. But we do not have to be shaken and afraid. Those of us in the household of faith will keep our eyes on the Lord. Of course we will be careful and cautious, allowing the Holy Spirit to guide us. But we will not be afraid!
As followers of Christ we don’t have to worry or be afraid. These things should not catch us by surprise if we have studied the Word of God. Knowing that heaven and earth will pass away should give us perspective in life. This world is not our home. “We are looking forward to a new heaven and a new earth, where righteousness dwells.” (2 Peter 3:13). Jesus tells us to have the proper priorities, “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, but store up for yourselves treasures in heaven.” (Matthew 6-19-20). And Peter, after reminding us of the temporary nature of this world, says, “Dear friends, since you are looking forward to this, make every effort to be found spotless, blameless and at peace with him.” (2 Peter 3:14).
Brothers and Sisters, those who read the book, knows how the story ends, so we should eagerly wait with anticipation for the return of Christ. We should not be so focus on living and building life here, which is temporary, that we forget about preparing for a life that is eternal. Since we do not know the time or the hour, we should stay alert and be prepared. How do we prepare? The Bible clearly instructs us to be watchful. We should seek God and submit to His will. We should live a life of purpose. A life that glorifies God in all we do. We should take every opportunity to do good, loving others wherever and whenever we can. If we do these things we can be at peace no matter the changes going on around us. God’s Word never changes. So we can trust that the return of Christ will not be the end, but the beginning of the very best! Love and Blessings…
Jesus answered, “Watch out that no one deceives you. For many will come in my name, claiming, ‘I am the Messiah,’ and will deceive many. You will hear of wars and rumors of wars, but see to it that you are not alarmed. Such things must happen, but the end is still to come. Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be famines and earthquakes in various places. All these are the beginning of birth pains. “Then you will be handed over to be persecuted and put to death, and you will be hated by all nations because of me. At that time many will turn away from the faith and will betray and hate each other, and many false prophets will appear and deceive many people.” (Matthew 24:4-11 NIV)
“Therefore keep watch, because you do not know the day or the hour.” (Matthew 25:13)NIV
“But the day of the Lord will come like a thief. The heavens will disappear with a roar; the elements will be destroyed by fire, and the earth and everything done in it will be laid bare. Since everything will be destroyed in this way, what kind of people ought you to be? You ought to live holy and godly lives as you look forward to the day of God and speed its coming. That day will bring about the destruction of the heavens by fire, and the elements will melt in the heat. But in keeping with his promise we are looking forward to a new heaven and a new earth, where righteousness dwells.” (2 Peter 3:10-13)NIV
“But in those days, following that distress, the sun will be darkened, and the moon will not give its light; the stars will fall from the sky,
and the heavenly bodies will be shaken. At that time people will see the Son of Man coming in clouds with great power and glory. And he will send his angels and gather his elect from the four winds, from the ends of the earth to the ends of the heavens. Now learn this lesson from the fig tree: As soon as its twigs get tender and its leaves come out, you know that summer is near. Even so, when you see these things happening, you know that it is near, right at the door. Truly I tell you, this generation will certainly not pass away until all these things have happened. Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will never pass away.” (Matthew 24:26-31)
“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” (John 14:27)
EMMANUEL 