Sky Gazing

Vibrant blue skies that bring an added sense of energy, traces of fluffy white clouds that bring a longing for the lazy days of summer, stormy gray clouds that warn of a fierce storm and freezing temperatures, starlit nights and harvest moons. All cause us to look up to the sky in wonderment. However, with the recent meteor that hit Russia and a Time article that talked about asteroid 2012 DA14, a medium-sized asteroid weighing 143,000 tons which was reportedly expected to miss the earth by 17,200 miles, we all may find ourselves gazing towards the heavens. 

However, NASA stated the chances of this asteroid hitting Earth were very low and that there was nothing to really be concerned about. In fact, there was not even an exact date set. So there was no need for great concern.

Basically, NASA was taking a “wait and see” approach and advising the public to do the same. While this is a great message and it greatly minimizes the chance of mass hysteria, it brings to mind the mentality that we as individuals have taken towards the expected return of Christ.

When asked by his Disciples if he were going to restore the Kingdom Jesus replied, “It is not for you to know the time or dates the Father has set by his own authority.” (Acts 1:7). The scriptures go on to say that Jesus was taken up before their very eyes and they, the Disciples, were left looking intently up into the sky. We know from the scriptures and history that immediately after Jesus’ ascension, the Disciple Peter spoke at Pentecost, there was an urgency to do what was right and many believed the message and were baptized. We also know from history that as time passed we as humans have lost some of the urgency and have begun to alter or move away from, and in some instances, attempt to rewrite the teachings of Christ. 

While the message of the Cross is still preached around the Globe, there is not that same sense of urgency that was exhibited on the Day of Pentecost. Instead more and more we are bringing to life the scripture that says, “For a time will come when men will not put up with sound doctrine. Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear. They will turn their ears away from the truth and turn aside to myths.” (2 Timothy 4:3-4).

The question is, have we in our own wisdom and estimations, like NASA, determined that the probability of Christ returning today is very, very low, and have thus decided to take a “wait and see” approach to our salvation? It is predicated that the chances of any of us witnessing the next return of a major meteor or asteroid is very rare. However, it is promised that there is a 100 percent chance that we will have to give an account for our actions and the life we have chosen to live. 

So while you may be inclined to take a few cautious glances skyward over the next few days on the off chance of witnessing history, know without a doubt you are guaranteed a spot during Jesus’ re-entry. 

Remember, God is a God of grace and each new day provides us with the opportunity to begin again. Choose God and may the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Welcome to the first day of the rest of your life!!!