“Blessed is he that reads and they that hear the words of this prophecy and keep those things which are written therein—for the Time is at hand.”
Revelation 1:3
Living each moment with this thought in mind will definitely change our attitude and actions as we live in expectant hope.
“For the Time is at hand.”
The Apostle John penned those words some 2,000 years ago during his forced exile on the isle of Patmos. And, it’s clear from his writings that he and the other 1st century Christians believed in the imminent return of their blessed Lord and Savior, Jesus the Christ. That’s why the early churches usually ended their services with the words “Even so, come Lord Jesus” (Rev. 22:20).
What would happen in our worship services (and daily lives) if we started doing the same?
Again, most likely it would greatly impact the way we think, talk and act. And, it certainly would help keep us from getting down-in-the-mouth or down-in-the-dumps over what’s happening around or to us.
We know John’s capturing God’s Revelation was intended to help bring hope to his fellow Christians who were being persecuted and struggling in their faith. It’s doubtful that he was thinking “I pray these visions of ‘what is to come’ will help struggling saints 2,000 years from now.”
No, like us, he was simply writing words of encouragement to those who so desperately needed it.
But, how thankful we should be God’s Word, like the One Who inspired it, is “the same yesterday, today and forever” (Heb. 13:8). And, how thankful we should be that we, too, will be “blessed as we read, hear and keep the words of his prophecy.” Hallelujah!!
Yes, dear Pilgrim, even though 2,000 years have come and gone since the Beloved Apostle took a quill in hand, dabbed it in a bottle of ink and began writing on parchment paper, his Message is still the same: “The Time is at hand.”
Why not say those words aloud right now:
“The Time is at hand.”
Say them again: “The Time is at hand.”
Then, stop and think about them one-by-one: “The Time”—what Time is it? We know, don’t we? The Time for Jesus’ blessed Return; “Is at hand”—is imminent; is upon us; it could be this morning or afternoon; it could be tomorrow; but, it won’t be long.
The question is “Are you ready?” And, then the next question is “Are you loved ones ready? Your spouse? Your children? Your parents? Your neighbors? Your co-workers, etc.?” Don’t delay. . .“The Time is at hand”. . .and Eternity draws near. If you don’t tell them, who will? Be faithful, Pilgrim. Today could be the Day. Go forth and tell (II Cor. 5:17-21).
By Tom Smith Morning Manna Dated September 27, 2010
