Preparing for the Second Coming: Living with Eternity in Mind as a Christian

 

Photo by Sebastian Knoll on Unsplash 

There lived a man named Samuel. Samuel was a kind-hearted and humble individual. He spent his days volunteering at the local shelter, assisting those in need, and spreading love and compassion wherever he went.

One day, as Samuel was going about his usual routine, helping his neighbors and tending to his business when he noticed an unusual commotion in the town square. People were gathered, whispering amongst themselves with grave expressions on their faces. Curiosity piqued, Samuel made his way towards the crowd, eager to understand what was happening.

As he approached, he overheard snippets of conversation mentioning the "rapture." Intrigued, Samuel inquired further, only to discover that according to the beliefs of some, the rapture was an event where the righteous would be taken up to heaven, leaving the rest of humanity behind to face a time of great tribulation.

As the discussion unfolded, Samuel realized that some people were actually missing. Panic and despair filled the air as people questioned their worthiness and wondered why they had been overlooked.

In the midst of the chaos, a loud siren is heard and people run Helter skelter sensing a disaster coming their way. They believed the tribulation had already begun, and they feared they had been left behind.

This is just a snippet of what could have been. This is not to scare you, it is written for you to come to an understanding and realize what is truly important—where you'll spend eternity. Some don't even get to experience it because they die before this time even Jesus proposed that we should ask for grace to be exempted from the tribulation.

 

Photo by Felix Mittermeier on Unsplash 

There lived a devout Christian named Jonathan. He was known for his unwavering faith and deep commitment to his beliefs. Jonathan believed in the Second Coming of Jesus Christ and embraced the idea of living with eternity in mind. But one important thing he did was to accept Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior.

For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.

Romans 10:13 KJV

Every day, Jonathan woke up with a renewed sense of purpose. He began his mornings by reading scripture and engaging in prayer, seeking guidance and strength for the day ahead. His heart was always filled with anticipation as he pondered the arrival of the Second Coming.

Jonathan understood that living with eternity in mind meant more than just waiting for the return of Christ. It meant actively preparing himself and others for that momentous event. He took it upon himself to share the message of hope and salvation with his community, organizing Bible study groups and hosting gatherings where fellow believers could gather to discuss their faith. He wasn't a social media person but encourages his friends to share the good news on their handles

As time went on, Jonathan's passion grew stronger. His humble demeanor and genuine love for others drew many people to him, hence to Christ. They were eager to learn and grow in their own faith.

Jonathan's efforts were not without challenges. Some people dismissed his beliefs as mere fantasy, while others questioned his dedication to earthly matters.

That thou keep this commandment without spot, unrebukeable, until the appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ

1 Timothy 6:14 KJV

 However, Jonathan remained steadfast in his conviction, always reminding himself and others that living with eternity in mind did not mean neglecting present responsibilities. Instead, it meant finding a balance between earthly duties and spiritual preparation.

As years passed, Jonathan's influence extended far beyond his small town. His commitment to living with eternity in mind inspired others to do the same. A ripple effect of kindness and faith spread throughout the community, creating a sense of unity and hope.

Just like a thief in the night, the day arrived. As the sun set on the horizon, an inexplicable energy filled the air. Jonathan, surrounded by his loved ones and fellow believers, gazed towards the sky, his heart amazed with awe.

In that moment, a brilliant light illuminated the heavens, behold he come riding on the clouds shinning like the sun and the trumped sounds and a voice echoed through the air, "The end is here!"

Jonathan's faith had been rewarded. The Second Coming had arrived, and he was ready. With a heart filled with gratitude and love, Jonathan embraced the reapture, knowing that his lifelong efforts to live in heaven with God had brought him to this very moment.

That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ:

1 Peter 1:7 KJV

This is just a story but I can only imagine what that day will be like.