thanksgiving

Yesterday was thanksgiving, and the house was full of family and friends and good food, and it was lovely. And as we were sitting around the table we started talking about earthquakes, and one that happened here recently. One of my uncles described the fear that resulted from hearing the concrete groan as is absorbed the impact of the building following a lurch of the ground. The orderly, but fear gripped exodus from that building. And then how the authorities assured them the the building standards are such that they can withstand a much greater earthquake and that there was no need to evacuate. However, in my opinion, responding to danger, taking action when we get the warning signs, that is the right response.

"You will be hearing of wars and rumors of wars. See that you are not frightened, for those things must take place, but that is not yet the end. For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom, and in various places there will be famines and earthquakes. But all these things are merely the beginning of birth pangs." Matthew 24:6-8

'And He was also saying to the crowds,
"When you see a cloud rising in the west, immediately you say, 'A shower is coming,' and so it turns out. And when you see a south wind blowing, you say, 'It will be a hot day,' and it turns out that way. You hypocrites! You know how to analyze the appearance of the sky, but why do you not analyze this present time?"' Luke 12:54-56

There has been a lot going on in this world and it does seem to be getting worse and worse... If this is only the beginning of birth pains, I had better be ready. Because what comes next is pretty scary:

"Then they will deliver you to tribulation, and will kill you, and you will be hated by all nations because of My name. At that time many will fall away and will betray one another and hate one another. Many false prophets will arise and will mislead many. Because lawlessness is increased, most people's love will grow cold. But the one who endures to the end, he will be saved." Matthew 24:9-13

This is Christians He's talking about! Lord, let my love not grow cold! Keep me in Your word that I will not be led astray. Help me and all those that follow You, stand firm in You. Let us be ready!

"Now learn the parable from the fig tree: when its branch has already become tender and puts forth its leaves, you know that summer is near; so, you too, when you see all these things, recognize that He is near, right at the door." Matthew 24: 32-33

And so I am reminded, just days after getting home, of why I came home. Of how necessary it is for me to be a faithful steward and an intercessory prayer here for those whose hearts do not yet trust in You Lord, and for those whose love is growing cold.

"So remember what you have received and heard; and keep it, and repent. Therefore if you do not wake up, I will come like a thief, and you will not know at what hour I will come to you." Revelation 3:3

Let those of us who believe stand firm. Let our hearts ever be opened and receptive to the Lord our God. And let us pray, because there is great power in prayer.

"... I urge that entreaties and prayers, petitions and thanksgivings, be made on behalf of all men, for kings and all who are in authority, so that we may lead a tranquil and quiet life in all godliness and dignity. This is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior, who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth. For there is one God, and one mediator also between God and men, the man Jesus Christ, who gave Himself as a ransom for all, the testimony given at the proper time."
1 Timothy 2:1-6

Thank You Lord that You have made a way for us to reconciled to You, and that You have given us time to tell those we love about You.