“…encourage one another…” I Thessalonians 4:18
Today is the last day of the year two thousand and eighteen. People are preparing for big celebrations. There will be parties; people crowded into Times Square to watch the magnificent glass ball drop; and fireworks displays heralding in a new year. We evaluate the past year and look forward to a new one—a new beginning. We make “new year’s resolutions” that seem to fizzle out after a few days. After this night of revelry—which is only a fuzzy memory for some—we awake to a new day of same ole, same ole.
Preparing for the “last day” may take several days, weeks, or even months of planning. Sometimes we start the planning during the celebration of the present last night. It takes a lot of effort to get to the point where you may not remember anything that has happened. Or at the very least, awaken so tired that you can hardly navigate the first day of the New Year. So much energy spent to have the time of your life that you don’t even remember!
The Bible talks about the “last day,” as well. This day, it tells us, “will happen in a moment, in a blink of an eye” (I Corinthians 15:52). Not unlike the night I have described, there must be preparation. However, this preparation takes much less effort on your part in order that you will be ready to participate in its joy. Yet, many have refused.
There will come a time when all the parties, fireworks, and splendor of the glass ball will pale. Nothing will compare with what is to come. Even though, we do not know the time of it’s coming we should not grow into a state of complacency, for even if we pass from this life before “The Day,” we will all be received into its glory by the God of Glory Jesus, if we have recognized our sin (Romans 3:23); repented (turned away from) and believed (Acts 3:19 & Mark 16:16); and began to serve and follow Christ (Revelation 2:10,11). This is the preparation for the greatest celebration known to mankind.
The butterfly goes through a great struggle before it comes into its beauty. So too, for the Christian. But, the butterfly does not give up. It believes that the struggle will be worth all the pain and heartache that it takes to achieve what God has called it to be—a beautiful, carefree creature that gives everyone who sees it great joy. You are that butterfly—maybe still in your cocoon—but, nevertheless, God has destined you to live in His glory that others may be encouraged, also. You see, God does not desire anyone to perish, but for all to be brought to a place where we can share His glory. This IS the day of new beginnings!
“This is the day of new beginnings, time to remember and move on, time to believe what love is bringing, laying to rest the pain that’s gone.
Christ is alive, and goes before us to show and share what love can do. This is the day of new beginnings, our God is making all things new.”
Words: Brian Wren, 1978; alt. 1987 (Rev. 21:5)
Music: Carlton R. Young, 1984
U M C Hymnal (1989) pg. 383
Read Isaiah 43:19
Heavenly Father, I may not understand how everything will work out, but I trust You. I don’t see a way, but I know You will make a way. I have faith that at this very moment You are touching hearts, opening doors, and lining up the right breaks and right opportunities. Things may look dark and bleak now, but I have faith that my dawn is coming. In Jesus’ name I pray. AMEN
I am looking forward to whatever is in Your plan for me!
A Blessed New Year to all!
I Thessalonians 4:16 Matthew 24:30 I Corinthians 15:52
(C) Rev. Betty A Beach-Connell 2018
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