Biblically speaking, we are living in the last days, and have been for almost two thousand years. But we are closer than ever to the return of Christ, and it seems to me the music is growing louder.
Since only God the Father knows the day and time of Christ’s return, we have no idea when; however, we may see signs. In Luke’s Gospel, we read what Jesus said about knowing what is to come:
He said to the crowd: “When you see a cloud rising in the west, immediately you say, ‘It’s going to rain,’ and it does. And when the south wind blows, you say, ‘It’s going to be hot,’ and it is. (Luke 12:54-55, NIV)
Still, we don’t panic, worry, or hurry. We don’t stop worshipping, praying, working, serving, teaching, studying, writing, or talking about Jesus.
A response to the title of today’s blog might be that writing in the end-times changes nothing in what we do, assuming you are already worshipping, praying, working, serving, teaching, studying, growing, writing, and talking about Jesus.
For Christian writers, what should you be writing in the last days?
- The gospel in everything
- Truth in everything
- Grace in everything
- Courage in everything
- Boldness in testifying
- Encouragement to remain faithful
This is precisely what any Christian writer would be writing, no matter what the current news indicates.
Using the disciples of Jesus as examples, they didn’t know the future. They just faithfully did the work God entrusted to them and left the future and its outcomes to the only one who controlled them.
Only one came close to what we call retirement: John, who was exiled to Patmos (which was nothing like The Villages), wrote the last book of the Bible, and many feel died of old age there. The other disciples were martyred by one gruesome means after another.
Of the two choices, I’d rather die of old age, unless Christ returns beforehand.
When Christ does return, if it is during our lifetime, may we be interrupted while exercising the gifts he entrusted to us and, hopefully, doing our best work:
The end of all things is near. Therefore be alert and of sober mind so that you may pray. Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins. Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling. Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms. If anyone speaks, they should do so as one who speaks the very words of God. If anyone serves, they should do so with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To him be the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen. (1 Peter 4:7-12, NIV)
Don’t know about the world’s end-times
as here I face my own,
but I will go on writing rhymes
until my flower’s blown.
I’ve parted now with dignity,
and bade farewell to pride,
and as I face eternity
there is no-where to hide,
and the poems get harder still
filtered through this midnight pain.
No complaints, it is God’s will,
Paul says to die is gain,
and I will go on as I can
in unseen dark to play the man.
((hugs)) and prayers, Andrew
Pam, thanks. Can’t quite stop the bleeding today.
Time to reach out and touch the hem of His garment.
Beautiful poem, Andrew. There is no refuge like Jesus.
What a timely reminder in a challenging season. Printing to keep by my writing desk:
For Christian writers, what should you be writing in the last days?
The gospel in everything
Truth in everything
Grace in everything
Courage in everything
Boldness in testifying
Encouragement to remain faithful
Dan, I saved your words regarding what Christians should write about and plan on putting it right next to my computer so that I can be reminded of your wisdom as I write. Thanks so much!
That’s a very good list
Thank you for this important reminder, Dan.
Thank you, Dan! This is excellent.
Let’s add to what a Christian writer should be writing about, especially a Christian fiction writer who needs to have a conflict in their storyline.
Let’s also realize that the human experience is often times burdened with a conflict, and let’s say that the conflict is rooted in sin.
We need to remember that we have a merciful God who forgives our sins when we are contrite of heart. Therefore, we need to write about forgiveness, especially through the lens of a loving God who wants us to follow his will for our lives, which always points us towards redemption, a redemption that became possible when Jesus Christ gave up his human life on the Cross. Our Savior. Amen.
I am writing a Christian children’s book series that is full of God’s wisdom and truth. The gospel is worked in to the last 3 books books in a way that is delightful and not at all pushy. I have a strong yearning to get these books out there quickly so God can use them to bring children and families to the Lord.
I feel too, the time we have left, is coming to a close quickly.
Thank you for your post. We need a fire lit under us to move.
In His Name,
Deborah Sorena
Really enjoyed this one!
The daily encouragement we need, especially in these days. Thanks, Dan!
Thank you Dan for the reminder. It’s both humbling and heartfelt!