That is a line from a poem. It is also an accurate statement regarding what we are seeing in the world. People see what is going on in the world and know that it is what the bible said. Even the most hardcore atheist is concerned about what he sees around him. I don't really care to talk about the Book of Revelations and I don't intend to do that now. I want to discuss how Christians should face crisis.
Next year Nasa and many famous scientists are predicting very bad solar flairs. These flairs have the capability of taking out the power grid. There are people who believe the world will end in 2012, I do not. I do not believe that we are in the End Times quite yet. I could be wrong, it really doesn't matter. Whether it is or it isn't doesn't matter, I can assure you that we will all die whether the earth continues on doesn't matter once we are all dead.
Christians should consider it an honor to live in these times, there is so much challenge and we have an opportunity. We have the chance to be of service to others knowing that we have a place to go. I was very disappointed in the people who were looking forward to the Rapture that one false prophet was selling. I will discuss a what if question. What if you had the choice to not be raptured, to not avoid the bad times that are to come, would you want to stay to help others?
What does it really mean to have the heart, mind of Christ? People say, "What would Jesus do" and then don't do it. I have known four or five women in my life that were the most gentle, kind souls as I have ever met. I know how special it is to feel that kindness when one is hurting, when one is scared or when one is grieving. Christians can and should be that for others when their lives are challenged. It does not matter if the person is a believer or not, we all need comfort.
During the worst of times Christians have the greatest opportunity to show who they really are and give others comfort. If you truly believe in God then you may have fear for a moment; but, you will get over it if you remember that God is always with us and welcomes us as we leave this place. During bad times I believe Christians should reach out to non-believers, not to convert them; but, to comfort them. That will be the answer for the hope that is inside you.
I know an atheist lady, she is involved in legal "sex" work in another country. I met her as she was traveling across the United States. And no, I didn't know what she did when I met her, all I knew was that she was a nurse. When the earthquake in Haiti happened, she took a month off and volunteered as a nurse. She did not run from the horrible conditions, nope, she volunteered for free because it was in her heart. I bet God appreciated that from her. Many Christians helped in Haiti also; but, shouldn't we if we have such skills.
Missionaries risk quite a lot, ever Christian is a missionary. We spread the word by our actions, we spread the word by our deeds. If we run or allow ourselves to remain scared then that also says something about our faith. We all get startled and we all get scared; but, we should get over it and help. It is a blessing to be allowed to be of service to people when they have no hope and are fearful, to bring comfort when it is needed the most.
You see, this post isn't about the end times, it is about our hearts and having the heart of Christ, not just words, actions. I think if I was raising money for the people of Haiti or the millions of muslims homeless in Pakistan because of the flooding, I think I could raise more at a brothel than at most churches. That is a harsh statement; but, the prostitutes are more likely to be willing to help Muslims. It says that when we see someone hungry or in need, we see Jesus. When we see need, we see Jesus. The question is whether or not we help him when we see him, to the extent that we can and is reasonable. If we know there is going to be great fear in the future then the need will be for a gentle heart to provide comfort.
There were three people at tonight's service and I was one of them, I spoke anyways. I was very torn when I began speaking at these meetings. I sort of hoped that nobody would come and that I would not have to step outside of my comfort zone. I don't feel that way now, I feel that I am blessed to be able to provide a place where people can find comfort if they so choose. Before more could come, I had to find my purpose and reason for being there. I will be there every Sunday at 5:00, my inspiration did the same, she was an amazing woman who was martyred.
There is a pastor in Iran who is about to be killed for refusing to deny his belief in Jesus. He has been in jail for a long time for believing in Jesus. Think about this, more people are killed for believing in Jesus than for believing in any other religion. It has always been that way for Jews and Christians. The only difference is that the Jews were killed regardless of what they believe personally, there was nothing to convert to. Christians were killed for refusing to deny Jesus as being their saviour. True Christianity has always had a cost, we should pay it gladly. When all around is utter chaos, we should be the calm, we should bring the comfort and we should stand tall. Be well and have a great week.
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