moments before midnight
"The consummation of all is close at hand. Therefore do not be perturbed; remain calm so that you will be able to pray." —1 Peter 4:7
Thousands of notable religious leaders have warned in the last few decades that we are close to the end of planet earth. They do not predict the end of the world tomorrow but within a time shorter than we would think. "The consummation of all is close at hand" (1 Pt 4:7).
Many Biblical signs of the times are unfolding. We have no time for long-range planning or nonessential activities. "Do not be perturbed; remain calm so that you will be able to pray" (1 Pt 4:7).
It's time to pray as never before, to invite all to receive Jesus as Lord of their lives, and to empower believers by the Holy Spirit. Many can be saved at the last minute (Lk 23:43). "The fervent petition of a holy man is powerful indeed" (Jas 5:16). Jesus promises: "If you are ready to believe that you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer, it shall be done for you" (Mk 11:24).
Look at your life, prayer time, and activities. Do you live as if the world's going to last forever? With three seconds left in the game, are you playing as if it's the first quarter? "You are not in the dark, brothers, that the day should catch you off guard, like a thief" (1 Thes 5:4). "We belong neither to darkness nor to night; therefore let us not be asleep like the rest, but awake and sober!" (1 Thes 5:5-6)
What time is it? It's getting late. Give your life to Jesus now.
Prayer: Lord Jesus, I want to be ready every moment to encounter You.
Promise: "Jesus told them: 'Put your trust in God. I solemnly assure you, whoever says to this mountain, "Be lifted up and thrown into the sea," and has no inner doubts but believes that what he says will happen, shall have it done for him.' " —Mk 11:22-23
Praise: St. Justin, patron of lecturers, sought God in many different schools of philosophy, but finally came to know Christ through His Church.
Rescript: †Most Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Auxiliary Bishop, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, December 29, 2012
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