For the great day of their wrath has come, and who can stand? (Rev. 6:17)
IT SEEMS WE ARE ALWAYS waiting for something. We are anticipating the peak of fall colors, or we’re anxiously waiting for the beginning of the holiday shopping season. Next month, some folks will be expecting the first snow, and others will decide to wait until the new year to change their diet.
We are chronically waiting or, in more positive terms, looking ahead. In our minds, there is the drumming of fingers, the tapping of restless feet, and the frustrated sighs of constant expectation for the next thing, both good and bad. Living in the here and now is a struggle for many. Doing so requires patience and calm, trust and contentment.
In the book of Revelation, the apostle John offered warnings and hope to believers. Based on what God revealed to him, John described what will happen when Jesus returns. While those martyred for the sake of Christ are eager to see justice completed, they are told to wait to receive special honor due them. Others face the same events with dread and terror, having never shown fear of God or accepted Christ. Both groups must wait for God’s time.
The primary question is whether we will restlessly wait or be productive until the return of Jesus. Will we serve to the best of our abilities in the meantime? And, consequently, are we prepared, relaxed, and ready for whatever God’s timetable includes?
Choose to live not for today’s pleasure, but with the promise of eternity in mind.
Hally Franz is a former high school guidance counselor turned stay-at-home mom. She is also a cheer booster, 4-H leader, church secretary, reader, and traveler.
