Nougat 10

Hello siblings

I was all set for a new series when something ‘dropped in my spirit’. The thing is, if Christ calls us home or the trump should sound, what is our status? Please consider today’s Holy Nougat

“Watch therefore, for ye know neither the day nor the hour wherein the Son of man cometh.” ‭‭Matthew‬ ‭25:13‬ ‭KJV‬‬

The nougat, like every other Scripture, is written in a particular context. We recall that Jesus was teaching about the last days. A teaching which for us begins in Matthew 24. Interestingly, one might say this was motivated by His own awareness of the end of His personal physical presence on earth. While this argument makes sense, there is also the school of thought that the context of the author might have influenced the subject. In either case, we recognize that the context has some influence on the content. Our task is to engage and reflect.

Although there’s an argument about the potential for the rapture (with exact dates given) this year, I am drawn to this nougat for two reasons. Firstly, it is based on the grim reality of death that has stalked in our presence, for I strongly doubt that any of us has been spared new of death since the pandemic hit. I have also been struck by a dream that urges us to be firm.

Death is sure

We all know that Death is certain. For saints and sinners alike. Unless we are caught up in the rapture, that is an appointment for which we must be present. And, for many of us, we are not fully prepared. If the date and time is unknown to us; then we live each day not only as though it is our Last; but more so as if it will be our First in the direct presence of God.

For me, this is a total game-changer! It is perfect opportunity to understand why Death has no sting; because to be absent in this body means that we are in the presence of God (1 Corinthians 5:3). Of a fact, this is no fun for us on the literal life cycle, when our loved ones die. When the emotions burst forth in the grieving moments this is hard to imagine; however during the lucid moments, we might accept the reality that being with God is the best way to spend eternity. All in all, we have no certainty about our time of death. But we can influence the quality of our life after death. So the question is – How are we preparing for the grand face-to-face reunion with God? Are we ready for that glorious time?

Dream, Vision or Reality?

Recently I dreamt about a season of desolation that engulfed us all. The place looked like the aftermath of War and many people who I knew were absolutely in despair. There was obvious lack all around and curfews seemed to be the order of the day. Worse yet, the enforcers were in vehicles, on horseback or on foot. We were reduced to the shadows trying to stay alive.

After several attempts to get to relative ‘safety’, it was nighttime and food had not been found. But no one knew when the curfew enforcers would arrive, or if they were mingling in the crowds, so everyone was on edge. Finally we were off(myself and another person), our mode of trans-port: a single bicycle.

At some point we realized that we were being followed; but we had no idea whether they were friends or foe. Efforts to melt in the shadows wasn’t always effective and for each detour we took, they were behind us. Then suddenly, we were overtaken and they entered a house. Shortly thereafter, it was as though I had the ability to hear them on the phone saying they saw no one.

I awoke suddenly and two thoughts struck my mind: we should have called on Jesus for protection, though it was obviously granted; and that this could be our reality if we lallygag and miss our first chance to be present with the Lord.

Of a truth, even during nightmares, we can call on Jesus. Let that be our constant reminder and source of hope. God, Who through Jesus Christ conquered Death yet again, has also conquered Fear, so we need not worry. Rather, we cast our fears on God, knowing that God’s grace is truly sufficient.

Hence the call to make our calling and election sure. Date or no date; Dream, Vision, or Reality; there’s too many still needing to experience God’s love, mercy and grace. Too many who would have true cause for fear were that dream to be a future reality. Thus, while our future may be secure, let’s also live as though this day could be our first. And in the process, help those who might falter or fear …

May God’s grace be ours as we look forward to the day that is our First – selah

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May all we seek be found in Christ