Jumanji

Now concerning the times and the seasons, brothers, you have no need to have anything written to you. For you yourselves are fully aware that the day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night. While people are saying, “There is peace and security,” then sudden destruction will come upon them as labor pains come upon a pregnant woman, and they will not escape. But you are not in darkness, brothers, for that day to surprise you like a thief. For you are all children of light, children of the day. We are not of the night or of the darkness. So then let us not sleep, as others do, but let us keep awake and be sober. (1 Thessalonians 4:1-6 ESV). I’m having a little difficulty determining a place to begin this devotional. Perhaps it is because I desire only to give you hope and encouragement and the temptation to “go on a rant” cannot accomplish that goal. So, my hope is this will not be such a writing.

Earlier as I was on my way back from curbside pickup, listening to a favorite classical country music station, one of the DJ’s said, “Whoever is playing Jumanji, can you please hurry it up and finish the game so we can get back to normal?” If you have not watched any of the series of films titled “Jumanji” they are all based on a magical board game that unleashes a world of adventure on siblings Peter (Bradley Pierce) and Judy Shepherd (Kirsten Dunst). While exploring an old mansion, the youngsters find a curious, jungle-themed game called Jumanji in the attic. When they start playing, they free Alan Parrish (Robin Williams), who's been stuck in the game's inner world for decades. If they win Jumanji, the kids can free Alan for good, but that means braving giant bugs, ill-mannered monkeys, and even stampeding rhinos. It is a world beset by perilous, life-threatening circumstances in real time. Sound familiar? I’m sure the radio announcers were merely being humorous with their reference. However, there is a sense in which most of us feel like the world has gone a bit crazy (maybe a lot crazy). I’ve kept up with most of the news - the good, the bad, and the ugly. I’ve heard and seen the reports from conspiracy theorists of various positions; I’ve listened to politicians and officials point fingers of blame and outright lie, blue hats, red hats, and everyone between. I hope our reading today will help us all find peace and encouragement in these difficult days. These words were written by the Apostle Paul, inspired by the Holy Spirit to do just that. First, if you believe in Jesus, you are not left “in the dark.” These things shouldn’t surprise us. In fact, we should be expecting them. This only proves the world is moving inextricably toward the final redemptive work of God. Take comfort in that, even if it takes another 2,000 years to get there. God is in control of the schedule. He is never too early or too late; He is always on time! Second, it is the perfect opportunity to tell others about our Redeemer. It is a time to be “awake and sober”. I wonder if we all spent as much time encouraging others with the grace of the Gospel as we do in political rants for one position or another what a difference that could make in our culture? At least a part of being awake and sober in these times, or any times, is in setting an example of hope in a world desperate for such!