May 21

OK, it is May 21, 2011 and we’re still here.  I know that because I’ve posted and you’re reading, so we haven’t been raptured.  I’m not surprised because I believe what Matthew wrote:

But of that day and hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels of heaven, but my Father only. (Matthew 24:36 KJV)

And Mark repeated:

But of that day and that hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels which are in heaven, neither the Son, but the Father. (Mark 13:32 KJV)

I pray that no one has changed their lifestyle based on this prediction. Christians should be serving their Lord without concern about His return.  That concern certainly isn’t indicated in any New Testament writings.  Prepared, yes, by becoming more like Him and following His commands.  That’s the change that comes by following Him.

Some may say that they need to witness to loved ones before it is too late for them.  Accidents happen, we never know when “too late” might be the next moment, the next call received.  We should have been talking with our loved ones about Christ from the moment we accepted Him ourselves.  “Now” is all the time we can count on.

Some thought of selling what they have – why?  Where does it belong? In your life, doing what needs to be done.  Mark has some good words for planning for His return, and there’s nothing about getting rid of material resources.

Take ye heed, watch and pray: for ye know not when the time is.   (Mark 13:33 KJV)

Do I believe He’s returning?  Yes.  Do I care at all about when?  Nope. That’s of no concern to me at all.  My requirements are laid out in His word:

He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the LORD require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God? (Micah 6:8 KJV)

That was given earlier, too:

Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man. (Ecclesiastes 12:13 KJV)

None of that leaves room for sitting and waiting for what a man has concluded, does it?  It is sad that those who chose to believe this set day must live with the embarrassment of being here May 22.  Their following a man instead of reading the Bible with prayerful hearts led to error.

However, never forget, that day will come and our lives should reflect our belief.  Whatever we would do if the time were known we should be doing right now.

Being ready is an individual decision.  I’ve made mine.