The Beginning of the End

Let me first start by saying that I do not believe for one moment that the end of the world will be happening tomorrow. But I do believe it could be today.

I don't think the Mayans had any sort of information aside from the information that we have today. We read in Matthew chapter 24 that no one knows the day or the hour that Christ is coming for His church, not even the angels OR Christ Himself...only the Father knows. That tells me one thing...we KNOW it will not be Friday.

I've heard a few reports from families in our area that are stockpiling water, ammunition, food, batteries, and emergency supplies just in case the Mayans were let in on a secret that we weren't privy to. That's all fine and good. I think we should all be prepared in an emergency.

What I'm wondering about though is this: Why aren't they concerned with what really matters? I haven't heard ANYONE talking about how we should be trying to point these people to Jesus. If they're so panicked about the world ending, don't we think they could be ripe for the harvest? There's obviously a need that's yet to be fulfilled in their lives. Why haven't we met it?

There were even news stories this morning about certain mountains in the United States that are believed to be gateways to time travel. There are people camping on those mountains this week just because they think they will be the first to enter. My husband personally took a plane ride a few months ago and sat next to a woman that watched out the window the whole time, expecting to see aliens appearing. It just amazes me what people believe in...but the fact that there was a Messiah sent by God Himself to die for our sins...that's too far-fetched?!?!

Heath and I didn't buy any extra water, but we have been buying a little ammunition here and there...but that's a whole other post entirely....

I'm asking myself though...what if TODAY is the end of the world? Are we prepared? I could care less about water, money that'll probably be useless, or other "emergency" items. In the end, all that matters is my relationship with Jesus. Have I prepared my family for the utmost urgent need?

Protection

A year ago today could've been very different. I posted last year about the dog attacks. So many times since that day, I've recounted the events of to other people, always being very careful to give God glory for His protection. In almost every testimony of that day, people have responded, "You were so lucky. Things could've turned out so different." This is true. I still can't believe that I was able to stand up the whole time I had two dogs hanging from my arms, trying desperately to tear me down. Thank God! I was standing the whole time. I shudder to think and have often had nightmares about what could've happened if I had fallen. Thank God! My children stayed in the car the whole time! I shudder to think and have had nightmares about what could've happened if they had gotten out. Thank God! My pregnant friend was not harmed during the whole ordeal. I shudder to think and have had nightmares about what could've happened if they had decided to turn on her. Thank God! Heath was with me and was able to take me to the emergency room. I shudder to think about how I would've gotten there if I had to drive myself. Thank God! I prayed during the attacks that they would somehow just let go....and they did! Thank God! For sweet friends and parishioners who prayed for me, and for my friend who owned the dogs. They exhibited Christ-like love, forgiveness, and acceptance to her, a babe in Christ.

I've often wondered about the concept of God's protection. I know it's real. Countless times, I've seen it. There's no doubt in my mind that God protects us more times than we can even imagine. But I have wondered...what does it look like? Are there always angels? The Psalmist writes in the 91st Psalm, "He will give His angels charge over thee to guard you in all your ways." I mean, does the angel always cover us from harm? Or does God Himself provide a shelter of protection. One of my favorite Scripture songs comes from Proverbs 18:10 says, "The Name of the Lord is a strong tower; the righteous run into it and they are safe." My wonderings don't really matter. The very fact that God protected me and gave me the assurance of His presence is enough! His grace is sufficient for me, and continues to be overflowing in my life.

I admit that today, I got lost in my thoughts about the events of one year ago today. It was overwhelming, and I was tempted to relive bad memories. I couldn't help though but be thankful for ALL that God has done for me. He protected, and He provided. I praise His Name!