Not in service

We are now in between times: 'the last days' between Jesus' first and second coming. We are in that time of miracles and the Holy Spirit, where we have the comforter and convicter rather than just the law and legalism.

But what should we do in this time?  What is expected in this apparently endless time of waiting?

The preacher today had a completely new perspective on this time. He read the parts of the Bible where Peter, Paul and the others were mocked for their belief in the second coming. Many of Jesus' followers believed the time was close at hand; weeks, months or at the most a few years in the future. I wonder what they would think of us still waiting 2000 years later.

Rather than waiting for signs and looking forward to the second coming we should seek the reasons why we are waiting.

2 Peter 3:

"Above all, you must understand that in the last days scoffers will come, scoffing and following their own evil desires. ⁴ They will say, “Where is this ‘coming’ he promised? Ever since our ancestors died, everything goes on as it has since the beginning of creation.” ⁵ But they deliberately forget that long ago by God’s word the heavens came into being and the earth was formed out of water and by water. ⁶ By these waters also the world of that time was deluged and destroyed. ⁷ By the same word the present heavens and earth are reserved for fire, being kept for the day of judgment and destruction of the ungodly. ⁸ But do not forget this one thing, dear friends: With the Lord a day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years are like a day. ⁹ The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance."

God wants us to use this time wisely; its something to be excited about. Which leads me to the use of the image above. So many Christians, myself included at many times, like to have our club and receive the benefits of Christian fellowship. The friendship, a place to belong, a place to worship. We have the 'not in service' sign up, its just for us. We need to share what we know and love, and perhaps take for granted.

And this takes me to my next image:

The preacher showed this as an example of someone who tries various jobs and tasks and always fails miserably. Someone that we feel warmth towards and find funny. The preacher likened Frank Spencer to a Christian that 'has a go' which is much better than someone that doesn't. This really encouraged me as I've often worried that I blunder through various things that I believe God wants me to do but I never feel particularly gifted in any one area. The great thing is I believe God was saying to me in this sermon that I am just like Frank: I blunder just like Frank but it is the journey and the act of the trying that makes the difference.

Looking back at the things I've endeavoured to do, I see God working in those things and making things happen. I know that those things aren't me, I blunder through them, showing that those things are definitely not me, they have to be God. Perhaps it helps me not to boast in anything apart from God, to keep me humble. Perhaps it is just enough that I try.