40Flex Journey | Day 11

Back to the future.

"I want you to remember that you are a picture of God’s grace."

The day is coming...

The future. Oh the future. We can get so obsessed about tomorrow. Will you have enough money? Will I be pretty? Will I be rich? Will the right person ever come around? What if I don't reach my goals? What happens if he leaves me? We plan and predict. Some look at the stars for answers. The modern approach is algorithms.

The concern for the future can be quite consuming.

In these passages Jesus gives a clear message. Not merely que sera sera, but a full picture of what will happen — the signs of times to come (or some might say the times that we are now living).

He goes on to say that past all those signs, no one but The Father in Heaven knows knows our final moments. So Jesus says, don't worry about tomorrow.

Live in God's love right now.

Let’s Read

Matthew Chapters 24 and 25 →

Now Think About This

As we read this account, keep in mind that Jesus would be betrayed in a matter of days.

Imagine knowing that and talking to your followers about the future. Add to that, the disciples seemed to be so engrossed with taking selfies 📸 at the temple (Matt 24.1). While they were marvelling at the buildings, Jesus already had a renovation in mind (Matt 24.2).

What is Jesus renovating in your right now?

Is it messy? Does it feel like: "Not one stone will be left on top of another !" Remember, new work requires new foundation. And you can't get to the foundation without tearing down the old.

Self-Examination

In Matthew 24.15, Jesus says "So when you see standing in the holy place the abomination that causes desolation...

In reference to the whole passage, Jesus seems to be talking of a temple, a physical place. However, I can't help but be reminded that I, me, my life, is a temple of the living God. That I am made holy (set apart) for the good works and plans God has for me. Following in logic, I am led to self-examine: have I placed anything in my life (standing in God's place) that is an offence (an abomination) to God... that will lead me to emptiness and loneliness (to desolation)?

But while they were gone to buy oil, the bridegroom came. (Matt 25.10)

Consider all the things we've forfeited because we don't prepare. The opportunity was there. The privilege was there. We missed out because we were too engrossed with ourselves. Let's just not miss out any longer. Okay?

Song of the Day

"Trust in You"

The Challenge

Big Steps Forward

01.
Reflect on Readiness

Review your spiritual readiness and identify one step to align your daily living with the expectation of His kingdom.

02.
Act of Kindness

Identify a talent or resource you’ve been given and perform an act of service this week that glorifies God.

03.
The Present Discipline

Practice gratitude daily this week, releasing future anxieties to God and trusting Him with your tomorrow.