One Shot (June 2011)

In this quarter we’ve talked about how everyone on earth is a sinner, we’re all worthy of judgment by God, and are closing up this month with the impeccable timing of God’s judgment. The OT tells us our sins will find us out (Num 32:23) and the NT tells us we were not made for a life of sin (i.e. darkness), but to be children of the light (1 Thess 5:4-11). Moreover, when Jesus is talking about the truth of God’s word He likens it to seed and light, giving a great harvest and great light to the world. This light will make all things clear. Read Luke 8:16-21.

Timing regarding God’s judgment shows up regularly in the media and especially in tabloid rags. We are enamored with the idea of the “end” but it means different things to different people. I’m mixed with humor and sadness to drive around Santee and El Cajon and see billboards boldly proclaim the day of judgment as May 21, 2011. Perhaps you’ve seen them yourself, or you actually believe them. In either case, I’m sorry and I don’t mean to be offensive when I say how ridiculous these claims are. I do intend to rely on the supremacy of God’s timing and not that of any other. God alone knows the timing of this reckoning – not the Mayans (ca. 12-21-2012), not the numerous radio or television personalities (ca. May 21, 2011), and not even the physical person of Jesus (Matthew 24:36). God literally became flesh to show us the way–to be the Way for us–and told us the day is not for us to know, only to expect its coming. In the light of God’s brilliance, everything – all our deeds, words, thoughts, and assuredly all of our sins – will come to light (Eph. 5:13).

We only have one shot – to live and choose Jesus – before death claims us. It’s been said the mortality rate of human beings is 100%, and scripture tells us that judgment comes swiftly upon our death (Hebrews 9:27). As we wait for God’s perfect timing for each of us, we must make a decision: to be children who live in darkness, or sons and daughters who walk – bravely, faithfully, lovingly and with confidence – in the light. If we are to do this, it must be on God’s terms, not our own. We must hear God’s word and do what it says. Live in such a way that our love for God draws us away from sin, and the inevitable consequences of them, toward the gracious arms of Jesus.