Even as we are in the month of November, the typhoon season has not yet ended. This is typically unusual as the typhoons are back to back and more than expected. The deluge of these storms were horrendously devasting with overbearing floods, lost of lives, cattle and crops. Here in Ilocos Norte, we have suffered the brunt of her ravage. Scientists have tagged this to the global warming phenomena which is one of the major causes. But as
Christians what is our spiritual perspective on this desolation.
Jesus has given us a sneak preview in Matthew 24 on the signs of the last days. He predicted that there will be many false prophets taking His name and many will be deceived by the Anti-Christ. There will be more flooding, wars, famines and constant earthquakes with strange phenomena on the solar system. But this is a like a warning from the lesson of the fig tree when it sprouts in summer. This is the time line for the coming of the end times. More than the physical elements, wickedness will abound greater with apathy, greed, immorality and hatred even for loved ones. The irony is when everyone will begin a new day with business as usual, partying, working and eating, not realizing that the end will come in a flash of an eye. But it will be too late by then. Even many unbelievers will find it hard to believe that these are the last days of earth’s history. Even as Christians we do not know the exact hour of His coming, but only our Father in heaven. However, we should prepare and be prepared for His return because it is imminent.
It is the desire of Christ that we are aggressive in fulfilling the Great Commission, to make His name known to our families, neighborhood, cities, country and all nations of the world. When persecution increases, our faith will be compromised to take the easier way out to meet our personal needs. But in such times, intensifying in devotion to the Word and prayer is the key to strengthen us in our trials. All the more we should not neglect meeting and fellowshipping with our Christian brethren because unity encompasses strength to endure. We might even encounter a time where the freedom of worship in public is prohibited, like in some parts of the world. Thus, building a Christian network is important to support one another should we go underground. We must recruit as many believers for the body of Christ’s network. So, in daily practical preparation what can we do before His second coming? It is a simple witnessing by testifying the good things God has done in your life. Such true to life stories will always arouse a listening ear. Who knows, you may also be narrating an incident that is similar to the one the hearer is struggling with himself. Any mention of the name of Christ penetrates the sphere of darkness with His powerful light of truth, healing and hope.
Offering to pray for those sick and in need can be a great blessing. No one turns down being prayed in any crises. Being spiritually urgent is never keeping silent. That is a mark of apathy, unbelief and uncompassion. Remember Christianity is not confined to the four walls of the church but to extend our borders far and beyond.