Beautiful Spring days faithfully spin into view each morning. How many more do you think we have?
God is very mysterious and, if I may be so bold, a little manipulating (in a good way) because he leaves the final events open for human examination giving us something to talk about.
Several weeks back, we had occasion to break open the Word with some friends well-versed in the Scriptures. The topic: When will we be gathered together unto him?
As we collected reference books and bibles, and as the conversation began to propel our thoughts from Daniel to Revelation; to Matthew 24 and Thessalonians, a funny thought crowded in. I spoke it out.
“Hey, I think I just perceived God scooting to the front of his heavenly seat and looking down as he motioned for some nearby angels to join him. ‘Look there, they are trying to figure it out again! What fun!'” In my imagination, his smile brightened all of heaven at that moment as he reveled in our quest for knowledge of these elusive end-time predictions.
We, of course, did not arrive at the ‘answer,’ but the journey was stimulating and sharpened our awareness of this rapidly approaching event we call the Rapture.
Being ready for the last trumpet; His shout, and that great and final burst of Holy Ghost that will translate us into His presence should be the primary goal of every child of God. It is so easy to be caught up in the work of God and the things of life that we can lose sight of Him and forget the urgency of this hour. We must live diligently to prevent this lethargy.
Every dispensation requires obedience. And now in this time of Grace, we are commanded to pray without ceasing. What does that mean? I think we know what it doesn’t mean! It does not mean that we spend the whole day and most of the night on our knees from now until we die. How would we accomplish anything for the Kingdom like that? No, to pray without stopping means to always have Jesus on our mind.
To me it means to watch my life unfold with a mindfulness to please him in all I do. Fear is not of God, doubt does not show trust in God. Bitterness and offense, pride and anger only cause His holiness to depart from me. So as these fleshly tendencies surface as they will from time to time, it is my responsibility to turn heart and mind to Him as quickly as I can. Then, to pray that he covers me and protects me from my own folly and weakness.
That prayer can take 10 seconds or less, or drive us to our knees for longer. But that prayer and many others need to rest on the lips of our heart all day. When we wake up in the morning, say out loud: “Thank you, God for one more day to serve you!” As we go about our scheduled events, we need to hold him in our thoughts and order our steps as he watches.
His return is promised and the signs surely point to sooner rather than later. So occupy until that great day with Jesus close to your mind and heart, praying without ever stopping!
Enjoy the Sun (Son)
