Matthew 24:42-44

^“42 Therefore be alert, since you don’t know what day your Lord is coming. ⁴³ But know this: If the homeowner had known what time the thief was coming, he would have stayed alert and not let his house be broken into. ⁴⁴ This is why you also must be ready, because the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect.”

There is no time to delay! The time is now. Are you truly ready for the second coming of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ? I received a call this evening from a great friend today. This man sharpens me in many ways. You see, I know when I see his name on my caller identification that I am about to experience worship and deep spiritual sharpening; I am never disappointed. We discussed the meaning of Matthew 7:21-23 that says, ²¹ “Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord!’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of My Father in heaven. ²² On that day many will say to Me, ‘Lord, Lord, didn’t we prophesy in Your name, drive out demons in Your name, and do many miracles in Your name?’ ²³ Then I will announce to them, ‘I never knew you! Depart from Me, you lawbreakers!’

Listen dear children. My soul is breaking for this very cause. I have spoken in the past and continue to feel a conviction to announce the truth! Where is your relationship with Christ? Both of these passages pierce the soul for urgency. First, we are to live each day in beautiful anticipation of our Lord coming back – riding on the clouds! We do not know the exact day or hour; therefore, we should remain alert and watchful.

Secondly, preaching, casting out demons, and calling on the name of the Lord alone is not necessarily declaration of salvation – let that sink in. Does that sting a little? I yearn for all of us to “get it” now before it’s too late! The Word makes it very clear that, “Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord!’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of My Father in heaven.” The only way you can do the will of the Father is to KNOW HIM intimately! Memorizing Scripture, going to church, and reciting rote religious oaths are all “good things” but can all be accomplished without developing a relationship with Christ and without following His will. I implore you to search your soul as the Holy Spirit opens up the true meaning behind these passages. The purpose of Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection was to restore a broken relationship! He expects a personal relationship as granted through His forgiveness, grace, and mercy.

My pastor often says, “We are closer to the second coming today than we were yesterday.” This statement not only makes me laugh but brings such reality to cognitive awareness. Yes indeed – we are closer today than we were yesterday; moreover, are you ready? I continue to feel an urgency in sharing the truth – the time is near. Let’s be a part of the awakening. What does this look like for you? First, it requires an intimate relationship with Jesus Christ – to know Him, to speak to Him, and to listen to Him daily. Once you experience this type of intimate relationship, then you will be charged to worship Him with complete surrender. Be filled this moment as He awaits your decision.

Question: Do you know Jesus intimately? Do you follow the Father’s will?

Thankful,

Christian Armetta