Church of the Open Bible,
This past Sunday, we took some time to consider the coming of the End and the End itself as Jesus shared with His disciples in Luke 21:5-38. Two points of application for us were: 1) Know what’s coming, but watch your heart; and 2) Know who’s coming and depend on Him. Jesus Christ is coming back! And we can depend on Him to provide what we need in the meantime. The incredibly practical nature of God’s revelation of the future can get lost in our discussions at times, but we see it through Scripture. Here’s another example:
The end of all things is at hand; therefore be self-controlled and sober-minded for the sake of your prayers. Above all, keep loving one another earnestly, since love covers a multitude of sins. Show hospitality to one another without grumbling. As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace… - 1 Peter 4:7-10
What characterizes someone informed by the reality of Christ’s return? Self-control, sober-mindedness, prayer, earnest love for others, hospitality (without grumbling), and serving others. What I find sadly fascinating is how knowledge of the End can often lead to the opposite of these. A lack of self-control and sober-mindedness. A lack of prayerfulness and love for others. So, how about you? “The end of all things is at hand, therefore” what difference is that making in your life?
I love how Peter wraps it all up by reminding us that as the End approaches, we should see ourselves as stewards of God’s grace. How are you stewarding His grace today?