Know And Watch

Weekend Message/Devotion

December 1, 2018

Communion Sunday

Luke 21:25-36

Know and Watch

Have you somehow missed the message that we are entering the Christmas season? There is no source of public information that has failed to flood the airways, newsprint, telephone lines, store windows and aisles, and roadside advertising. How could you not be aware that Christmas is upon us?

We begin a new bible study this week: 100 prophecies fulfilled by Jesus. The news (prophecies) of the coming Messiah was, at best shared mostly within the temple and not a universal topic of excitement and anticipation.

If we read today’s gospel message, we soon come to realize that Jesus is coming. It is very unlikely that you will receive a text message, a recorded telephone call, a television blurb, etc. wanting to keep you informed of the coming of the Lord. You will certainly hear and see such on a Christian broadcast radio or television program.

Edna and I worked with a missionary from Taiwan whose grandmother forced him to memorize the entire New Testament. I certainly admire Timothy for maintaining that knowledge, especially since I have a hard time remembering what day it is. Fortunately, I have always been able to remember the message but rarely many of the bible verses that I memorized in seminary and otherwise.

“Now when these things begin to happen, look up and lift up your heads, because your redemption draws near.” (verse 28) In other words, when this world begins to crumble, and it will, we must keep our eyes and focus heavenward. Christian believers know that “end times” are coming. We just don’t know when, nor should we. There is absolutely nothing that you nor I could ever do to change that timing. What we are to do is just as the reading says, be aware and look up. So, we do know what to expect and what God expects of us as it pertains to knowing: “the kingdom of God is near” verse 31)

Understanding and living accordingly to God’s Word is the key: “and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:7)

Even though we do not know when, we certainly need to be watchful. Too many fall victim to weak faith and turn from God when things get really tough. And then, there are some that grow complacent and drift when everything is warm and comfy, so to speak.

God speaks plainly to us about this. If we know that the Second Coming of Jesus may happen at any second of any minute, it behooves us to live in readiness for that blessed event. Using that word watch doesn’t mean searching the skies and clouds for the Second Coming, it means to be Alert and Ready.

Vance Havner said it well: “I’m not looking for signs, I’m listening for a sound”. That sound shall be the long- awaited trumpet and shouts from the archangel.

“He who testifies to these things says, “Surely I am coming quickly.” Amen. Even so, come, Lord Jesus!” Revelation 22:20

Let us pray -

I humbly and sincerely ask for your prayers!

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Note: It is the practice of this church to preach straight from the bible. We follow the lectionary assigned readings from which the sermon/messages are derived.