“So when you see the ‘abomination of desolation,’[f]spoken of by Daniel the prophet, standing where it ought not” (let the reader understand), “then let those who are in Judea flee to the mountains. 15 Let him who is on the housetop not go down into the house, nor enter to take anything out of his house. 16 And let him who is in the field not go back to get his clothes. 17 But woe to those who are pregnant and to those who are nursing babies in those days! 18 And pray that your flight may not be in winter. 19 For in those days there will be tribulation, such as has not been since the beginning of the creation which God created until this time, nor ever shall be. 20 And unless the Lord had shortened those days, no flesh would be saved; but for the elect’s sake, whom He chose, He shortened the days.” Mark 13.14-20
Max Lucado just wrote a book about the end times called “What Happens Next” (visit book here). In this book, he discusses God’s plan for humanity from creation until Jesus returns, as spoken about in the Bible. In the passage from Mark 13, Jesus talks about what was foretold by the prophet Daniel and emphasizes the need to be ready for this time.
Jesus gives a warning about what we call the rapture and the tribulation. The time will come suddenly, and woe to those who are pregnant, nursing babies, or enduring winter! The tribulation will be a time of testing unprecedented since the beginning of creation, according to Jesus.
Last week, I served on a panel with Max Lucado and a group of others. It was a real privilege to hear Max talk about these end times and to prepare my heart and soul for this event. Although it may never happen while I am alive, I can prepare my own heart and continue to preach the gospel to bring others with me. Essentially, like a thief in the night, says Jesus, those who are in Christ will be taken up in the rapture to God in heaven. Let us be ready! How do we prepare? We love and serve Jesus.
Today, I am in Italy with my family celebrating my daughter’s graduation from college. I am surrounded by the signs of the ancient church. When Paul took the gospel to the Gentiles, it spread quickly to Rome, just a few hours’ drive from where I am now. What began in creation, God drawing people to Himself, continued through Jesus until now. Our one purpose in life is to love God back, to be in a relationship with Him, and to spread this news to others.
Have you loved God? Are you preparing for the day you will meet Him face to face? Are you ready for the return of the King, the rapture when all believers will be lifted up into heaven? If not, repent and believe the Gospel. Invite Jesus to come into your life and receive Him as Savior and Lord.
Your life will never be the same again.
“O Lord God, You are good. In my brokenness, I try to seek You, to love You, and to find myself before You as acceptable and willing. I sacrifice my life, time, and witness to You this day. Help me to embody the gospel to everyone I meet. Make the devils flee from my presence along with temptation. Call me to represent You, Lord Jesus.”