Pray:
Lord, help me to see the noble purposes for which You have called me and to persevere to the end.
Read:
Matthew 24:3-14
Reflect:
What is your response to Jesus' words here?
Thanks to the popularity of the Left Behind book series in the 1990s, the notion of the "end times" has become widely talked about. Yet, as we see here, the idea is firmly rooted in the Bible and in the words of Jesus himself.
The list of end-times signs that Jesus gives is as difficult as it is compelling. It's hard not to try to tick things off, or scratch one's head, wondering if this is literal or metaphorical.
Perhaps, however, it's less helpful to focus on how close we might be to Christ's return, and better to consider some of the bigger principles discussed. He urges his followers to be vigilant against those who might seek to deceive the church (4,5) and stand firm in the face of persecution (9-13). Perhaps global evangelism must happen first (14).
All the signs Jesus points to are present in some form or other today. We could spend much time considering their significance. But most importantly, Jesus tells us to stand firm, to beware false prophets, and to invest ourselves in his mission. These three are our best preparations for his return, whenever it might come.
Apply:
Ask yourself: what do you think and feel about the idea of Christ's return? Write or talk to someone about it.
Pray:
Lord, help me to be prepared for Your return and to live in light of the hope of Your coming.
