It was in the early 70’s when I saw it for the first time. I was in my early teens and a phenomenon was sweeping through our churches. Lots of books were written about it. It seemed to be the topic of everyone’s conversations and from the pulpits across America, however it was the movie that got my attention, I guess because I was a kid. I still remember the long hair, big sideburns, huge glasses (which are back in style today) and clothes straight out of “That 70’s Show” that scared me to death. It was a film called “The Thief in The Night” that was about the second coming of Christ that sent many young people in my days running down the aisle to accept Christ. Kum Bay Ya was replaced by “You’ve been left behind” and if you didn’t “get saved” or “sanctified” you would be “french fried” as I remember it.
Today is an interesting time in history. Through God’s sovereignty here we are, living in what Jesus describes as “the last days” 2 Tim 3:1, James 5:3. The period of time after His ascension and before His second coming and He is going to return by the way (Matt 24.36-25:46) although we don’t seem to talk about it that much anymore.
What an exciting time to be alive and such an important time to be alive as well. Why? Simply because on His way into heaven Jesus spoke to the disciples these last words in Acts 1:7-8. ” It is not for you to know times or epochs which the Father has fixed by His own authority but you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be My witnesses both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and even to the remotest part of the earth.”
The suns coming up right now and I am reminded of my assignment “be My witness.” Today, September 29 I have a lot to do. My schedule is full but nothing as important as this. I like my chances because being a witness of Christ has nothing to do with me since I have received power by the Holy Spirit. Not just any power but a supernatural power that only God can give me in which I must draw from.
I need to get ready and head to the church offices; however I feel the need to dress myself first from Eph. 6:10-18. Today is an important day even though from looking through my schedule there’s nothing out of the ordinary. However I can never forget how important today is because of what Jesus told me to do, what He’s counting on me to do. I need to be aware of anyone sent my way that I could share my faith with or encourage, or speak truth into their lives. Jesus’ last words to His disciples are just as important to me as they were to them.
It’s an important day because there is a possibility that “For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. Then we who are alive and remain will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air, and so we shall always be with the Lord”. 1 Thess. 4:16-17.
Mike
