Don’t be caught by surprise

“For you know quite well that the day of the Lord’s return will come unexpectedly, like a thief in the night. When people are saying, “Everything is peaceful and secure,” then disaster will fall on them as suddenly as a pregnant woman’s labor pains begin. And there will be no escape.” 1 Thessalonians 5:2-3 NLT

Like most runners, Eighteen-year-old ultramarathon runner Samuel Odom has a favorite route. Unfortunately though, as Spectrum News 1 out of North Carolina reported yesterday, Pilot Mountain State Park, Samuel’s favorite trail, is closed due to wildfire. He's running on the road instead because of the blaze that's been dubbed the "Grindstone Fire.” You get to run a little bit faster, but at the same time it's a lot harder on your knees, your hips, your ankles," Odom explained. Odom says getting ready for his run Tuesday just feels different because he does about 90% of his ultramarathon training at Pilot Mountain, and he loves it there. “I just love the peacefulness. It's really low key here. Not too many people. There's more horses than people here, so that's really great," Odom said. Odom was caught by surprise when he saw the mountain in flames and his favorite trail closed."I was definitely shocked. I definitely wasn't expecting it, but I don't think anyone was. It's very tragic," Odom said.

And you know, when it comes to being caught by surprise, the Bible tells us that “the Lord's return will come unexpectedly.” So unexpectedly in fact that it will be “like a thief in the night... when people are saying, “everything is peaceful and secure” when it’s anything but. But you and I don’t have to be caught unaware because the Bible also tells us what will happen in the days leading up to Christ’s return—things that are occurring right now, things that we should be taking diligent notice of so that we are not shocked on that “day.” Not only that, while you and I anxiously await Jesus’ return, we should be sharing the Good News with the lost so that they might choose to accept Him now before it’s too late. After all, there’s absolutely nothing more tragic than the fate that awaits all those who die without having done so.

So look for opportunities to share the Gospel today my friend and be bold, yet kind, caring, considerate, loving, and meek when doing so. The gift of eternal life that is given to all those who choose to follow Jesus is the absolute best thing we could give anyone this Christmas season.

Heavenly Father, thank You for the Word that tells us what to expect in the end times. Lord give us discernment to interpret that Word so that our eyes and hearts would be open to the seriousness of what’s to come and the urgent need to share the Good News. Give us a heart to evangelize Lord and remind us that it’s sometimes just as easy as sharing our testimony with someone else. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!