Its the end of the world as we know it....

I have been thinking about this "end of the world on May 21st" talk.  I have to say, I love it.  Now, I do not believe the world is going to end on Saturday, but what if it did?  I think that would be amazing!  I would be in heaven hanging out with Peter and Paul and Jesus.  I would love it.  But that is not why I am writing.  I am not sure if the man who is responsible for this chaos knew what he was doing when he posted all this, but his prediction gives the church an amazing analysis of the cracks in our foundation.  For some, this end of the world talk invigorates them and forces them to get out and preach the gospel.  Those that would normally never tell a stranger about Jesus are finding themselves talking to people at Starbucks about salvation.  For some pastors, we get the chance to see the members that need a better understanding of eternity and how nothing matters except Jesus and His word.  Some people are getting scared, some are excited, some could care less.  Will the church have to fight a little harder if the world does not come to an end on Saturday? Yes.  We will need to explain why a Christian would send such a terrifying word to the world.  But we have a great opportunity on our hands, an opportunity to speak truth into people's lives.  This chance does not come around often, at least not on a stage like we have now.

I feel the closest to God, like I could reach out and touch Him, when I am at my lowest point.  When I feel my world coming to an end, that is when I feel the most real with The Lord.  I believe this is true with many people.  And so I feel this is the best time to speak directly to the hearts of the lost and hurting. This is the best time to see how people will really respond to life when they feel their world is falling down.  I feel, now more than ever, a great urgency to make a difference.  I encourage all of those who read this to change the world around them.   It could be as simple as talking to a stranger you see hurting, showing love to the ones around you.  Share your life with people, share your love with the world just as Jesus shares His love with us.  Today, more than ever, make a difference.  And come Sunday, if we are still around, you'll be glad you gave yourself to become a better person.

Jesus, I pray You would release peace on the earth.  I pray You would encourage Your children to live a full life devoted to You.  Help us grow, help us become more like You.  Holy Spirit, make opportunity rise, make our paths cross the paths of those that need You most.