Several times in my (relatively long!) life, I’ve heard predictions about the end of the world. Someone would announce that the rapture or the return of Christ would happen on a certain day. But friends, don’t be fooled.
Jesus Made It Clear
Jesus Himself made it clear in Matthew 24:36: “No one knows about that day or hour, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father.” If not even Jesus knew, then certainly no person today can make that call. Joe Schmo from Schenectady definitely doesn’t know either.
“But no one knows of that day and hour, not even the angels of heaven,but my Father only. As the days of Noah were, so will the coming of the Son of Man be. For as in those days which were before the flood they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until the day that Noah entered into the ship, and they didn’t know until the flood came and took them all away, so will the coming of the Son of Man be. “ Matthew 24:36
The Good News
But here’s the good news—Jesus did give us a clue. He told us to stay ready, to recognize the signs of the times just as we recognize when one season turns into another. The shifting of the leaves in autumn, the crispness in the air—these are reminders that change is coming.
“Now from the fig tree learn this parable: When its branch has now become tender and produces its leaves, you know that the summer is near. Even so you also, when you see all these things, know that he is near, even at the doors.” Matthew 24:32-33
Troubled Hearts, Relax
With that in mind, I’ve included two scriptures and a poem about fall. My prayer is that these words of Jesus won’t leave you fearful or fooled, but encouraged and watchful—living each day ready for His return. Let’s not forget his words in John 14. He’s gone ahead of us in life and death. He’s preparing a place for us and will be there to receive us at any moment.
“Don’t let your heart be troubled. Believe in God. Believe also in me. In my Father’s house are many homes. If it weren’t so, I would have told you. I am going to prepare a place for you. If I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and will receive you to myself; that where I am, you may be there also. You know where I go, and you know the way.” John 14:1-4
