The Light’s Just Flickered

Most of my life I lived in a small town in British Columbia, Canada. Although winters could be harsh, for many the beauty was worth its inconveniences. The most spectacular scenes were revealed the morning after a snowstorm. The snow would be fresh and untouched, like a cake straight from a pastry shop.

As a child it was fun to go out after a storm and shake the branches of trees causing an “avalanche” on my head. It was also common for us to loose power from the same snow laden branches leaning onto the power lines. During a winter storm the lights would often flicker or dim. When this happened we made note of where the flashlight was. If they went off then back on again we were setting out candles and matches. If this happened three times in a row, more likely than not, it wouldn’t be restored for several hours. The key was being prepared. For those who weren’t, it could mean frozen water pipes and extreme discomfort; but for those that were prepared it could be exciting, a change in routine often resulting in a candlelight dinner and family time.

Well friends, the “lights” just “flickered!” Jesus’ return is nearer than it has ever been! Matthew 24:44 warns “You also must be ready all the time, for the Son of Man will come when least expected.” and “you, too, must keep watch! For you do not know the day or hour of my return” (Mat 25:13 NLT). Like a winter storm it is important to be prepared. It’s time we get out our “flashlights.” “Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path” (Psalm 119:05 KJV).

There is a beautiful promise I have hand-written in the front of my Bible. “…pay attention to how you hear. To those who listen to my teaching, more understanding will be given. [followed by a warning] But for those who are not listening, even what they think they understand will be taken away from them” (Luke 8:18 NLT). Will we face the coming storm (Mat 24) in dread or look forward to it with excitement? It is time more than ever to open our Bibles and search, as for a lost treasure, the promises and truths God has gifted us in His Word.

“Trust in the LORD with all thine heart;

and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all your ways

acknowledge Him, And He shall direct your paths.”

Prov 3:5 & 6