“The end of all things is near. Therefore be clear minded and self-controlled so that you can pray. Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers a multitude of sins.” (I Peter 4:7-8)
It is exam time at school. The students know the end is near, but as you know, not all prepare. Though a final test is imminent, some decide not to care about such troublesome things. Unfortunately, such thinking often leads to disastrous results.
The apostle wrote, “The end of all things is near…” and we’re closer than those who read the original letter. Is such a word to be taken seriously? Some decide not to care about such troublesome things, but what about the wise?
“Therefore be clear minded and self-controlled so that you can pray.” In the days before the end, the pleasures and worries of life will cloud the mind and hinder prayer. “Watch and pray,” Jesus warned. “As it was in the days of Noah, so it will be at the coming of the Son of Man.” (Matt 24:37) “Be careful, or your hearts will be weighed down with dissipation, drunkenness and the anxieties of life, and that day will close on you unexpectedly like a trap.” (Luke 21:34)
As Noah had a task to complete before the end of the earth as he knew it, so we have an assignment: “Above all, love each other deeply…” The apostle Paul makes an amazing statement: “The only thing that counts is faith expressing itself through love.” (Gal 5:6) Jesus knew the enemy would attack faith and quench love as the end approaches. “When the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on the earth?”(Luke 18:8) “Because of the increase of wickedness, the love of most will grow cold, but he who stands firm to the end will be saved.” (Matt 24:12-13)
So here’s my ending encouragement at the close of a school year: Stand firm. Be self-controlled and alert… and pray. Grow in faith… and love all those around you.
Once again, I thank you for the love you’ve shown me and my family. Have a great summer!