If The Ark Is A-Rockin' . . .

When Jesus speaks to us in the 24th chapter of Matthew’s gospel, He urges each of us to be watchful and to stay awake, for the day the Son of Man comes again will be unexpected and we shouldn’t be caught unawares.  As the Season of Advent begins, tension builds and the world is turned upside-down and inside-out.  Christians around the world commemorate the first coming of Christ and prepare for the annual celebration of His birth.  And every year, regardless of how busy the season is and how busy our lives become, we always manage to find room for the baby Jesus.  But we sometimes forget that His return is also yet to come.  That's what Advent is a time for.  He came into this world once as a child and as a Savior.  When He comes again it will be not only as our Messiah but also as our judge.  We need to make sure there is room in our lives for THAT Jesus as well.

I love how Jesus uses a reference to Noah, to describe the coming days of uncertainty.  He reminds us how, before the flood, for years everyone but Noah and his family were going about their business oblivious to the events unfolding before them.  Until the rain began to fall, there was no recognition of the sinfulness pervading their world and their lives.  And imagine how unsettling and traumatic it must’ve been for Noah and his children to hear the cries and screams of those lost souls, their friends and neighbors, as they understood the consequences of their failure and the value in Noah’s walk with God.  The prophet Isaiah similarly guides us in the right direction as he wisely counsels “come, let us walk in the light of the Lord!”

True believers will use these next few weeks preceding Christmas as a time to reflect on the scriptures and the prophecies and make sure preparations aren’t limited to gift lists, layaway plans and holiday feasts.  Make sure you’re also prepared for an unexpected guest when you least expect it.  He will come again to judge us all in truth and love, and His grace will surely be enough to save us all.  Praise Him all you peoples for there’s no God like Jehovah!  Happy Thanksgiving to all for there is surely much to be thankful for, thanks to Him!