"Then you will know the Truth, and the Truth will set you free." ~ John 8:32

Friday, February 28, 2014

Are We in the End Times?

There is something in the air, and most of us can sense it.  Earthquakes seem to be increasing. Weather patterns seem to be altering in dramatic ways. The threat of yet another war seems to be looming on the horizon, and with the nuclear weapons we have available today, if a war should erupt, it will be far different from previous wars.

People seem to be more anxious and fearful than ever. When I was a child of eight years of age, I would take the bus by myself to go downtown. There was no danger.  We slept with our doors unlocked. During the summer, we even slept on the porch with no concern whatsoever.

Today, we live behind alarm systems and barred windows. We look over our shoulders as we walk city streets.  We drive through traffic lights and know that we are being monitored.

People seem more rude than ever. Hostilities abound between nations and between spouses. Sin is no longer hidden for fear of punishment; instead, sin is openly and shamelessly exalted.

What does all this mean?

Scripture has much to say about all of the above. What I have described are the signs that will occur before the return of Jesus Christ. Yes, Jesus Christ is coming back. Acts 1:11 tells us that "Jesus, whom you saw taken up from you into heaven, will come back in the same way you saw him go.”  Are you ready for His return?

The eyes of the world are focused on the Middle East, particularly Israel.  Have you ever wondered why?  Why does a nation about the size of the state of New Jersey hold the rapt attention of the entire world? Why does a tiny nation with a small population compared to the rest of the world play such a critical role in current events?

The reason is that Israel is God's nation. He established it and He will preserve it. Despite all attempts to annihilate Israel, it will never happen. Jesus Christ Himself will return to earth to rescue His people. And all those who oppose Him will be destroyed.

It is a dangerous thing to stand against Israel. He who stands against Israel stands against Almighty God. The prophecies of Scripture have never failed to be fulfilled just as they were prophesied.  While all of the prophecies have not yet been fulfilled, those that have come to pass have been fulfilled exactly as prophesied.

What does all of this mean for you? It means that you must make yourself ready for the return of the Lord.  How? By accepting Jesus Christ as your Savior and Lord.  He alone can save you from sin. He alone can redeem you from destruction. He alone can satisfy your heart with good things.

To accept Christ is to accept eternal life.  To reject Christ is to accept eternal damnation. Yes, there is a hell, despite what many say.  But you do not have to go there when you die. The choice is yours. Accept Jesus Christ now. Then write to me to tell me you have.

Here is a simple prayer you can pray:

Lord Jesus, I am a sinner and I need a Savior. I ask You to forgive me of my sin. I turn to You to save me. I receive You as my Savior and Lord. Make of me what You created me to be. Amen.

If you prayed this prayer from your heart, you are now a child of God. Scripture says "But to all who believed him and accepted him, he gave the right to become children of God" (John 1:12).

Please let me know if you have prayed this prayer. I will send you information on how to begin your new life in Jesus Christ.

May our Lord bless you and keep you. May He make His face to shine upon you and be gracious to you. May He grant you His favor and give you His peace. Amen and Amen!