12.04.2002

Text: Luke 12, 35 - 40

1.) Be dressed ready for service.

What does Jesus want to say by that, when he speaks about a readiness for service?   In Jesus' times people were dressed differently than what we are. They needed a belt to move conveniently and freely. In Exodus 12,11 it says that God's people had to eat at passover with their cloak tucked into the belt. God wanted them to be alert all the time, which has a spiritual meaning for us. To be ready and awake at any time for his ministry. In Hebr. 10,34 it speaks about people who joyfully accepted the confiscation of their property because they knew they had better and lasting possessions. In the same way shall go forward and being prepared to leave everything behind. When Paul got converted, right from the beginning of his ministry he had that attitude. I am prepared to go wherever you want me to go.

2.) Keep your lamps burning.

Every christian must have a burning heart for Christ, the one who was not ashamed of us and died for us. God even says he prefers us rather to be cold and heathen than lukewarm. Can people around you testify that a warmth, light and Godly fire is seen and felt in your life?

Through us christians, tha light shall be seen, and others shall praise God for the light they see in us. It was only the lamps of the foolish virgins that were not shining.

3.) Wait upon the lord

Waiting seems to be extremly difficult to many Europeans. The expression used here is used in various contexts in the new testament. It can also be translated as to focus on a goal, to fix a direction. We must never turn our eyes away from Jesus, turn your eyes away from him and you will fail in your spiritual life.

Richard Wurmbrand was such a christian who, when he suffered in persecution did not take his eyes away from Jesus. Also his wife, when they told her your husband has died (which was a lie) , and they wanted her to marry someone else she refused. Because God could speak to her while she did not turn her eyes away from Jesus. Christian, stick to the word of God and the promises.

Jesus is not coming through physical death to us, he can speak through Wis word. Do you understand his speaking to you?

4.) Blessed are those …

Some people are fast asleep in their spiritual life. Often I wonder about the way, christians who should have understanding are living oppositely to God's will. Division amongst christians is not the fruit of the Holy Spirit, but of the devil.

Be a watchful Christian who is waiting upon his lord. You will be blessed with a heavenly blessing. One can not imagine what is written here, Jesus himself will serve those who were faithful at the table in heaven. Jesus wants to lead you with his eyes. He prepared the greatest price, a heavenly crown awaits you. Therefore, let the word of God be near to you every day in your life.