One of our members asked me the other day if I thought that the events surrounding the pandemic is the sign that Christ is returning soon. Let me share with you my response and offer some hope in a troubling time.
Scripture is clear that Jesus Christ will return to rapture His church and then judge all of humanity that refused to accept the grace of God provided through the death, burial and resurrection of His Son, Jesus (1 Thessalonians 4:14-18; Ephesians 2:8-9). The Bible also tells us that no person, no angel, or even Jesus himself, knows the day or hour when God will send His Son to return to collect His bride, the church (Matthew 24:36).
Even though we cannot predict Christ’s coming, we can be sure He will return for His followers. When that time does come, it will be vital that we have our eternity secured and sealed through the blood of Jesus Christ.
During this time of uncertainty and confusion let me encourage you to read and take to heart this passage: Titus 3:1-8:
“Remind the people to be subject to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready to do whatever is good, 2 to slander no one, to be peaceable and considerate, and always to be gentle toward everyone.
3 At one time we too were foolish, disobedient, deceived and enslaved by all kinds of passions and pleasures. We lived in malice and envy, being hated and hating one another. 4 But when the kindness and love of God our Savior appeared, 5 he saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit, 6 whom he poured out on us generously through Jesus Christ our Savior, 7 so that, having been justified by his grace, we might become heirs having the hope of eternal life. 8 This is a trustworthy saying. And I want you to stress these things, so that those who have trusted in God may be careful to devote themselves to doing what is good. These things are excellent and profitable for everyone.”
We can place our hope in these truths and celebrate the fact the Jesus changes our hearts and minds, even our entire way of life. We can and should live in gratitude and thanksgiving as a result. We can be confident that we, His children and heirs, have absolute hope for eternal life. We can live a life that is focused on doing what is good, excellent and profitable for others.
Take a few minutes in prayer today regarding the following points:
Take a genuine assessment of your own life, evaluating it in light of God’s expectation for salvation through Jesus Christ.
Thank God for his loving kindness and grace upon your life, transforming you from death to life.
Thank God for providing a promise of hope and eternal life.
Ask God to provide opportunities for you to introduce your friends, family and neighbors to this gospel message.
Ask God for guidance in how you can live in a way that is excellent and profitable for others.
Living in His Grace,
Brian Freerksen
Student Ministries Pastor