Write From My
Heart / January 3, 2021 / Watch and Pray
Luke 21:34-36 (NIV) Be careful, or your
hearts will be weighed down with dissipation, drunkenness and the anxieties of
life, and that day will close on you unexpectedly like a trap. For it will come
upon all those who live on the face of the whole earth. Be always on the watch,
and pray that you may be able to escape all that is about to happen, and that
you may be able to stand before the Son of Man.
The 21st chapter of Luke (vs. 5-28) contains Jesus’ response to his disciples concerning the description of things occurring at the end of the age sometimes referred to by Christians as the “the signs of the times.” It is interesting to read down through the list and note the many similarities between that description and the days in which we are currently living. However that is not the focus of this devotion. I would like to bring to the foreground a short passage I believe is tragically overlooked or downplayed by those focused only on the itemized list of events or those who errantly focus on date-setting.
Jesus says, “Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will never pass away,” v.33. Then immediately he warns the disciples to “Be careful, or your hearts will be weighed down…” v. 34. I know some versions use the terms carousing, drunkenness and the anxieties of life; but I do think dissipation may be worthy of note. While it is true dissipation can indicate a life of excessive drinking and self-indulgence, it can also be used to indicate a condition of having been scattered, dispersed, or separated and it is these latter terms that brings concern to my heart.
I have mentioned before that I live in one of the states still enforcing many restrictions on its residents, particularly with regard to allowing citizens to be together. I do not intend to get bogged down in those details for it serves no purpose. Instead, my message is one of encouragement to every Christian who might be able to be reached through this devotion.
You are NOT alone!
Whether you live in a state where you may freely meet with friends and loved ones, or in a state where gatherings are limited, you are not alone! There are nearly 205 million Christians in the United States and nearly 141 million of those are affiliated with Protestant churches. Data from 2015 reports an estimated 2.4 billion Christians worldwide. My heart tells me one of the greatest tactics of Satan will be to convince Christians they are alone as they face future troubles and struggles. Jesus Christ tells us to be careful, to be watchful, and most importantly to pray so that we may be able to stand up under the troubles of the coming days.
What can we do to encourage others? Certainly praying specifically for individuals should be a priority. I also think simple tangible acts (e.g., phone calls, texts, cards, letters, emails) will also be critical in supporting one another and boosting one another’s spirits. Restrictions may come and go from state to state, but there are many forms of communication still available to us. Perhaps it is time to get creative. Check on your family. Check on your friends. Communicate. But most of all—PRAY.
Gracious Heavenly Father,
We are not alone for you are always with us. Nevertheless, we understand there are many people dealing with feelings of isolation and loneliness caused by the arbitrary restrictions still imposed in many areas. Give us the passion to reach out to family, friends, and all fellow Christians and to communicate with them that they are not alone. May we be the tools for spreading your comfort to others.
In the name of Christ Jesus our Lord and Savior, Amen.
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