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EVERYDAY MESSIAH  

Jesus told them, "Don't let anyone mislead you.  For many will come in my name, saying, `I am the Messiah.' They will lead many astray.  And wars will break out near and far, but don't panic. Yes, these things must come, but the end won't follow immediately.  The nations and kingdoms will proclaim war against each other, and there will be famines and earthquakes in many parts of the world.  But all this will be only the beginning of the horrors to come." – Matthew 24:4-8 (NLT)

      The warning Jesus makes is clear. The focus on false Christs, military conflict, lack of adequate food supplies, and natural disasters is all misplaced when they are looked upon as signs of the end of the world. Unfortunately, this is the norm. This is the world in which we live and it is not going to change anytime soon. Be concerned, help out, do what you can to make the world a better place, but don’t freak out! Jesus is still here, God is still in control, and prayer still changes things.

      When we focus upon the when of Jesus’ return we tend to miss the importance of the now as we follow Christ today toward ultimate triumph. What we often take as “signs of the times” actually turn out to be obstacles to true discipleship. What better weapon for the enemy to use than to turn our focus away from Christ in the guise of waiting and watching for His return? When Jesus returns is not of importance to us. How we live while we are waiting is.

PRAYER THOUGHT: God, I am ready for you to come, and I am living for you in the meantime.