As I sit here, thinking about the need to write our end of year Anchor of Mercy Newsletter, my mind began to wonder towards several areas around the world that are presently experiencing upheaval. Everywhere you look...newspaper, television, and magazines...you see a struggle; whether it is between people or countries…whether it is through natural causes (earthquakes or other forms of environmental calamity); there is always something going on. No country seems to be exempt; no country is without turmoil; unfortunately some more than others. Each day it seems to worsen; children killing children, countries threatening to kill their neighbors with unspeakable technology, and it is growing at a mega-scale.
The Bible gives many signs that should warn us of the coming end of the age. Six such signs are given by Jesus, two characteristics are given by Paul, and eleven other occurrences are given by the prophets to occur prior to or soon after the end of the age. While we are also told we will not know the time of the End, God obviously wanted us to know His timing and how to prepare as it got closer.
Unfortunately, Christians read Scripture and ignore many of these warnings; yet others have fallen into the trap of not wanting to be labeled..."conspiracy theorist" or “the radical right”…should they display an interest in the Biblical Prophecies. My philosophy is simple. God included future events in the Bible for a reason and, since God is all knowing...we should trust that it is true and study it along with the rest of His words.
As we all look to 2007 and hopefully beyond (Lord willing), we all need to remember what is important. Family, friends, and other very unique relationships that you have developed through the year; all should be at the top your list. For only through personal connection can we feel that we have contributed to our world’s indifferences...one person at a time.
Several years ago there was a commercial that suggested “you tell someone…they tell someone…and some on.” We don’t all need to go to a foreign field to serve, but we are all called to visit the guy next store. That is what it is all about…sharing Christ to the nations, but not at the expense of not meeting the need of the guy next store.
Time is short and our world is not getting any better…so the question is…what are we doing about it? Each of us needs to answer that question; each of us needs to listen to His calling for where He wants us to spend our time, our efforts, our energy and our assets. Time is short and certainly each of us wants to make our life count for Him.
Remember -- New Year’s Resolutions are only as good as our ability to act upon them; Faith is an action word, because each of us needs to walk in and by faith. Make a resolution that makes a difference, for time is short. If you ask me about my resolution for 2007 and beyond...I just want to serve Him more as He gives me strength. I also want to be there for others and to meet their needs in a timely fashion. Being in full-time missions...all I can do is give of myself...thank God for all of you...and pray for each of you, as I know you are praying for us. May God richly bless you in 2007.
