"Behold, I am coming soon."

Whenever things like Hurricane Katrina happen, my initial gut reaction is, "God is trying to get our attention." I felt the same way when the sunami hit Southeast Asia months ago.

I believe God reigns over the Universe and is in ultimate control of earth and all that's in it. Along with this, I believe God is the author and designer of the weather we experience. If we look through the Old Testament interactions between God and men, time and time again we observe God's direct interaction as providence and protection and as judgment and warning. (The Exodus, The Conquering of Canaan, The Exile, etc)

I do not think God has stopped interacting with us in this way particularly because Jesus suggested he wouldn't. When Jesus' disciples questioned him about what the sign of his return would be, he listed specific world events that would be taking place, leading up to his return. (wars, famines, earthquakes) Check, check, check. I do not believe he did this so we could figure out the day and hour of his return. But I believe Jesus expects those who follow him to recognize when the time of his return is drawing near.

Recently, I read over the following text in Luke 21:25 in reference to the coming of Christ:

'And there will be signs in sun and moon and stars, and on the earth distress of nations in perplexity because of the roaring of the sea and the waves...And then they will see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory.'

I believe Christ could come back at any moment, either in minutes or in decades. But I can't help but expectantly look up when the sea and waves roar.

Our response to these things must not be foolish (or presumptuous). We must continue about the work God has laid before us. I want to fight sin harder, love others better, and trust God with reckless abandon. I believe in the race of our lives, its time to pick up the pace as we gear up for the final push. Come quickly Lord Jesus!!