Is it Time?

Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen. For by it the people of old received their commendation. By faith we understand that the universe was created by the word of God, so that what is seen was not made out of things that are visible. (Hebrews 11:1-2 ESV).

 

With all of the circumstances swirling through our lives now I am not at all surprised to hear from so many people with a common question. Many have contacted me asking if this is the time of the Second Coming? The short answer is that I simply don’t know. In fact, no one other than the Father knows (cf. Acts 1:7). I do know that I would want it to be now, in fact, the sooner the better. What could be more irresistible than eternal life and our heavenly home? That is especially true when we see times like these.

 

There are some common experiences that give us glimpses of heaven in our everyday living. One of those moments is used by Jesus to help us understand what this new life in heaven will be like (cf. Matthew 22:1-14). Jesus uses a wedding to help us understand some things about it.  These are unique events in which we understand that the unconditional love of marriage should prompt a great celebration. We capture such moments photographically because we know that in this lifetime they are rare and fleeting. Jesus compared the kingdom of heaven to a wedding banquet because these events reveal scenes of heavenly delight.

 

Covid-19, riots and protests shutting down our major cities, the economy on the brink of disaster, joblessness at an all-time low, and other more personal difficulties with our individual health and well-being do not lend themselves to this world seeming like heaven on earth. But if we are clothed in Christ, we can anticipate the eternal wedding feast.

 

As you read the Scripture and the descriptions of the new heaven and new earth remember these are but a shadow of what is to come. Heaven-like moments in life are like tiny appetizers handed out as we wait in the rain to get a table at a fine restaurant. Both give hope to tired legs and empty stomachs. The intent is to assure us that the wait is worthwhile.

 

Our eternal joy in heaven is sooner than ever! Until then know that these times are only temporary inconveniences compared to the coming forever perfection!