Lessons That I Have Learned from the Storms

In the midst of beginning with a plan, I have found that things do not always go according to plan.

Monday, August 22nd- I prepared myself and delivered the Eulogy for Mr. Kenneth Bagley, entitled “The Swiftness of Life”. This sermon was taken from James 4:14 – “Whereas ye know not what shall be on the morrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapour, that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away.”

Tuesday, August 23rd – Working at my desk around 1:51 p.m. I felt a tremor, to discover later that our area had been affected by an earthquake which was centered near Richmond, Virginia.

Wednesday, August 24th – I attended the Home Going Service of Mr. James Haskins, father of the city’s newest and most professional Morticians in Goldsboro, Mr. Ernie Haskins.

Thursday, August 25th – I celebrated my 60th Birthday. I was excited about my Senior Citizen status until I was brought to the remembrance of Psalm 90:10, “The days of our years are threescore years and ten; and if by reason of strength they be fourscore years, yet is their strength labour and sorrow; for it is soon cut off, and we fly away.” I suddenly realized how close I was to God’s fulfilled promise…

Friday, August 26th – I began to prepare for what was described as a Category 4 Hurricane that was headed our way.

Saturday, August 27th – Hunkered down in our home with no power and no way to go anywhere, I pondered over the message for Sunday – “Signs of the End Times”.

 Mark 13:3 holds the record of a private meeting between Jesus and His Disciples. Some of them had questions concerning signs of the end of time. Jesus mentioned that when you hear of wars and rumors of wars, nations and kingdoms rising against each other, earthquakes in divers places, famines and troubles – these are only the beginnings of sorrows. He also warned His disciples of false prophets, the persecution of Christians. The world will try to distract, deter and eliminate believers in Jesus Christ.

 His warning to each of us is to watch and pray. Do not be deceived by anyone. The signs of the times are evident. He continues to warn us that the end of time is near. No one knows when that day will come, however, it is crucial that we make sure that when the Son of man does appear, He will find us ready and not sleeping, not entertaining sin and matters of the world. As His Church, we must constantly be prepared for His coming – “For no man knows the day, nor the hour when the Son of Man shall appear… Therefore be ye also ready: for in such an hour as ye think not the Son of man cometh.”