End of the World or Not?

With all of the media attention, bill boards, website, radio talk etc surrounding Harold Camping's claim that May 21, 2011 is the day of Jesus' return - I must admit many things have gone through my mind...

First, not going to lie, I found my self making sarcastic and comical remarks. Like, hmm wonder what he is going to do on May 22 when he is still here or hello isn't this the same guy who has been wrong before? I even had a "roll my eyes" kind of attitude about it.

Second, I found myself even second guessing what I believe. Granted this didn't last long as God gave me a sense of peace that could only come from Him but still it was a momentary thought.

However, the one thing that hasn't left me is this: Jesus IS returning someday and no one knows the time of that. Mark 13:32-33 tells us that even Jesus doesn't know when He will return BUT we are to be on the alert, ready and waiting. So, as I pondered this I began to evaluate - what does being ready and alert and waiting look like? I mean, I am pretty sure I am not supposed to just stare at the sky all day and wonder - is that Him? I also don't think I am supposed to go on the streets proclaiming "Doom and Gloom" but what exactly should I be doing?

Here is what the conclusion I have come to:

1. Make sure that my heart is right with God each and every day! Develop and invest time in my relationship with Jesus...

2. Show love for God through my love and service to others. The day IS approaching when I will see my Savior face to face and I will be held accountable. I want to live EVERY day as though it is my last and I want to serve Him faithfully with all my being/

3. Spread the Good News. It occurred to me - what if the people who spent all that money predicting the end for 5/21/11 had actually invested that in reaching the lost - what a difference that would make! There are so many lost people that simply DO NOT KNOW JESUS! I need to be open and bold in proclaiming the truth of who Jesus is and why He came. I need to have a sense of urgency concerning those who are lost and going to hell.

4. No one DOES know the day or the hour - not only do we not know when Jesus will return ( I hope soon) but we also do not know if or when Jesus may call us home. In actuality, every day could be my last, every moment could be my last - am I living it for Jesus? Nothing matters more than living a life serving my Savior.

So - do I believe that Jesus is coming? ABSOLUTELY! Will it be today - 5/21/11? I have no idea but this is a reminder to me that it could be ANY day and I need to be ready each and every day for His coming.

My Challenge to You: Do you know Jesus? If not, get to know Him today! If you know Jesus - are you living your life sold out to Him and serving Him knowing that today could be the day you come face to face with your Savior?

Praying you each have a wonderful day and know that you are loved by Jesus and by me!