9.17: How do You Get Ready for the Return of Jesus?

A few years ago, I worked with a client who was  opening a new business. It was a physical location that needed city  permits, an architect, a contractor, inspections — everything — before  he could open. Originally, he hoped to open in August of that year, but  delay, after delay, after delay happened. Most were out of his control.  He finally opened in November. I was helping with his marketing and we  had to keep on telling interested, potential customers that the grand  opening party was postponed, again and again. Nevertheless, when he did  open, he had a fantastic grand opening. We built anticipation, got the  right publicity and the place was packed! It did take some planning,  combined with a lot of flexibility, to pull it off. That’s kind of what’s going on in the final chapter of Peter’s second  letter. Peter had taught the Jewish Christians of the first century  what he himself heard Jesus say… Don’t let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God, and trust also in me. 2 There  is more than enough room in my Father’s home. If this were not so,  would I have told you that I am going to prepare a place for you?   3 When everything is ready, I will come and get you, so that you will always be with me where I am.” John 14:1-3 NLT“ When, Lord, when? The problem was that they expected Jesus to return within their lifetimes — just like the Thessalonians that Paul addressed in his two letters – You can check out that Bible study here. They were impatient. Imagine scoffers saying, “So, where is he?” 2000 years later, we’re still waiting. Many “scholars” have tried to  predict when the rapture would happen — stating specific dates — and  nope, not yet. Unfortunately, followers of these false prophets gave up  everything because they thought that Jesus would come for them on a  certain day. However, Jesus reassured us that we are not to know the hour or the day… 36 “However, no one  knows the day or hour when these things will happen, not even the angels  in heaven or the Son himself. Only the Father knows. Matthew 24:36 NLT Peter addresses this in this last chapter… Keep reading in my blog where there are links so you can dig deeper.... If you want to reap all the benefits of salvation including the 1-way, non-stop ticket to Heaven then… Believe. Repent. Be Baptized. Receive the Holy Spirit.  Pray this prayer humbly and wholeheartedly… “Dear Lord Jesus, I know I am a sinner. I believe You died for my sins. Please forgive me. Right now, I turn from my sins and open the door of my heart and my life to you. I confess You as my personal Lord and Savior. I surrender my whole life to you and I will follow you for the rest of my life. Thank You, Jesus, for saving me. In Jesus' name, Amen.” Jesus is coming back soon! Are you ready? Soli Deo Gloria — To God Alone Be the Glory! This is a daily podcast, published each evening.  Hit the subscribe button so you don’t miss out!  And please share this with your friends.