Long-range Planning

  We all tend to make every effort to prepare ahead of time for important events in life (weddings, birthdays, anniversaries, graduations, etc.) or upcoming visits from family and friends. There is a level of activity not seen on a normal day. We become keenly aware of the need for cleaning up areas of the home that normally go unnoticed. Everything has to be just right. The extra work to serve those that we love knows no bounds, and is really an enjoyable experience if the guests are pleased.

  Should we take any less care to prepare ourselves for the time when Christ comes for us or we go to see Him face to face? Have we conducted our lives with a desire for His “well done” in mind? The apostle John enjoins us to walk closely with the Lord now, so that when “He shall appear, we may  have confidence, and not be ashamed before Him at His coming” (1 John 2:28). Cleanliness in our everyday lives should be the standard. Let’s keep the clutter out in readiness for the big event of  His return (1 John 2:29)! Will He find us waiting for Him with an eagerness, having holy speech, actions, activities, and associations that are representative of His character, or is our life characterized by little consideration of seeing Christ (1 John 3:2-3)?

  In addition to living pure lives, are we actively seeking to serve the Lord out of a love and recognition of His coming? There should be a sense of “look what I did for you”! Our thoughtfulness of Christ and what would please Him should be evidenced in how we serve Him in His church and in the world around us, doing everything in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ (Colossians 3:17, 23-24). Upon His receiving us unto Himself, each one of us will give an account to Him before the Judgement Seat of Christ (Romans 14:10; 2 Corinthians 5:10). This time in Heaven will be a rewarding of the believer for his service rendered to Christ while upon earth. Each of our gifts, abilities and talents should be employed in service to our Savior!

With eternity's values in view, Lord, 
With eternity's values in view; 
May I do each day's work for Jesus, 
With eternity's values in view.