26 His voice shook the earth at that time, but now he has promised, Yet once more I will shake not only the earth but also the heavens. 27 This expression, “Yet once more,” indicates the removal of what can be shaken—that is, created things—so that what is not shaken might remain. 28 Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful. By it, we may serve God acceptably, with reverence and awe, 29 for our God is a consuming fire – Hebrews 12:26–29 (CSB)
Thank you to those of you who saw the news about South Africa a couple of weeks ago and were led to reach out to us and ensure we are safe. South Africa experienced a week of chaos with severe violence, rioting and looting across the country at levels that haven’t been seen here in a very long time. Fortunately the Lord protected us through it all.
Deaths and severe illnesses have also increased greatly in South Africa in the past couple of months. Fear, anxiety, and tensions are high as people face the reality of death and the uncertainty of both a virus and a vaccine. We’ve personally had to grapple with these things as we have had friends and partners in the gospel here pass away during this time.
As I prepared to preach one Sunday last month, I felt the Lord highlighting the verse 1 Peter 4:7 – The end of all things is near; therefore, be alert and sober-minded for prayer. (CSB)
I asked the congregation that Sunday a question – If God by His sovereign grace and power was to reveal to you that He was in fact actually returning and coming back tomorrow, what would you then do differently today knowing that fact? Take a few moments and answer that question now for yourself.
As I pondered this question personally, I realized that a divine revelation of Christ’s imminent return the next day shouldn’t actually change what I do today. The reason why is because I should already be living in that reality. Jesus has told us to live our lives that way.
I should already be keeping in step with the Spirit as I seek to obey God in all things and partner with Him in the ways He is desiring me to partner with Him so that He may be glorified. I should already be loving the Lord my God with ALL of my heart, ALL of my soul, ALL of my strength, and ALL of my mind. I should already be alert and sober-minded so that I may pray continually.
Jesus is returning soon. I’ve heard a number of well-respected Christian leaders who believe that He will return during the lifetime of this current generation. Personally, I actually have that sense as well. Regardless of the actual timing of His return, we also know that our lives are like a vapor, here for a little while and then gone.
Live each day as if TODAY may be that glorious day that by God’s grace you will stand before the Lord and see Him in all of His majesty and beauty.
11 I am coming soon. Hold on to what you have, so that no one takes your crown. – Revelation 3:11 (CSB)