Today’s thoughts are less my typical blog post and more along the lines of the challenges I used to write daily. I might just label these thoughts that way. Whatever the case, I know that my reading today was more than just a learning and growing time. It was a challenge to my way of living each day.
Blessed is he who reads and those who hear the words of the prophecy, and heed the things which are written in it; for the time is near. Revelation 1:3
…for the time in near. This was written close to 1900 years ago. In my mind I can’t help but wonder what the definition of "near" is in relation to Biblical prophecy. Nineteen hundred years and counting doesn’t seem "near" to me.
So I grow complacent. I live as if life will just move on, and on, and on. I have little urgency. I do not make every day count.
This verse speaks a blessing over those who not only read and hear the words of this prophecy, but also heed it. Heeding requires action. And, with words like those found in the book of Revelation – and even in other portions of Scripture that are not prophetic – the required action cannot be lackadaisical or relaxed. These words are compelling. The words suggest urgency. These words reminds us that "near" is more related to the attitude of our hearts than to a number of years.
I am challenged to heed these words. I will be honest: I don’t understand most of Revelation. My mind does not process prophecy, especially apocalyptic prophecy, well at all. Symbolism is mind-boggling to me. But that does not keep me from being able to heed the message. The message is that Christ is returning. The message is that His return is near. "Near" could possibly be another 2000 years, but that is irrelevant. My attitude should be that "near" means I must be a reader and hearer of action. I must heed the words with urgency. I must not live as if I assume everything will continue indefinitely. I must live as if this is it.
Lord, grant me wisdom to heed these words! Grant me wisdom to be prepared!
