Tuesday, November 4, 2008

Are you listening?

This story has nothing to do with gardening but I feel very compelled to write it. With everything that is going on in this world I feel it won't be long until Jesus returns. I've been reading different books, watching different shows and really feel this in my heart. I have discussed these things with family and some friends and many are in agreement with me.

I've been reading a book titled, "One Month to Live" by Kerry and Chris Shook. It is based on what would you do if you found out you had 30 days to live. For instance, would you change your lifestyle? Would you change the way you think? These are just a few of the questions that it makes you consider.

I guess I have really taken this to heart because the other night I had the most unusual dream. Oh sorry but one little detour. Sometimes when we are talking there are times when my husband and I tell each other that when Jesus does come we are ready to go. Life has been great here but in Heaven it will be oh so much better. Okay, on with my story, sorry.

Back to the dream. I dreamed I found out I had a terminal illness. In my dream I was so sad to tell my mom. Then when I was telling my husband I was even more sad. I told him that even though I knew things were going to be okay I didn't really want to leave him and my life on earth. I told him there were still some things I wanted to do. Then after that I woke up and thought that was some kind of dream.

Most of you don't know but I have daily devotion and quiet time with my morning coffee. So that morning as I opened my Bible this is the first verse I read - The hour has come for you to wake up from your slumber, because our salvation is nearer now than when we first believed. The night is nearly over; the day is almost here. Romans 13: 11-12.

Now I don't know if you are like me or what but some people say they hear God talking to them. Honestly, most of the time I don't hear him. But if this verse doesn't speak loudly then I don't know what does. As Crystal Lewis sings in her song, People get ready Jesus is coming, soon we'll be going home. People get ready, Jesus is coming, to take from the world his own. I really believe this! Question is, "Do you?"

17 comments:

Anonymous said...

Susie, In the past 6 months watching the rapid decline of mother's health and now trying to learn all we can about Nalley's health, I too often think about how much time we do have left. I have certainly learned to make the most of every minute of every day and be so thankful for each and every blessing. I pray to be attentive and helpful to the needs and requests of others. I especially am thankful to be meeting new friends in blogland where we can share the joy and tears and lift each other up in prayer. Praying that you will have a restful night.

Susie said...

Thanks Mildred, I can only imagine how tired you and Nalley probably are from a long day of testing. I surely hope you guys get some good news.

Isn't blogland great? I started my blog in late May of this year and have been hooked since. I have conversed with so many wonderful people and have so enjoyed meeting new friends. Can't wait to see who I meet next.

Jacquie said...

I hear a lot of people talking about the end times these days. Our preacher has been preaching for the past 20 years that Jesus is coming soon... 20 years is a long time to some, but in God's time, it's nothing!

Thanks for stopping by my blog. I just LOVE your sister. I'll come visit again soon!

beckie said...

Susie, it's not what I belive or don't- what matters is what you believe. We each have to find a way to live our lives as best we can. You seem happy with your beliefs and I am glad for you.

Susie said...

Jacquie-God's timing is always perfect! Sometimes it's hard to understand but still perfect.

Beckie-You are so right! I am happy with my beliefs.

flydragon said...

Your dream and the next mornings bible verse gave me goosebumps.

Meems said...

Susie, It is not uncommon for us to feel Jesus is returning soon when all the world seems uncertain. Certainly there is scripture to support your sense of urgency. Whether He is coming soon or not doesn't really matter (to me). His admonition is to be ready. Ready means we know Him personally. His return will take most by surprise. But regardless, every knee WILL bow and every tongue will confess at some point that He is Lord. I look forward to the day.

Thanks for a heartfelt, bold, and sobering post.

Anonymous said...

I agree with the others, your faith is what matters. I have faith that I will get through each day as best as I can & that my strength is from my faith in a higher power. Poignant post today.

Susie said...

flydragon-Goosebumps?!?! Yeah, you could say I felt that too!

meems-Unlike my dream, I'm looking forward to that day as well.

Racquel-Glad you enjoyed the post. Faith? Got'a have it!

Meadowview Thymes said...

Wonderful post Susie. You expressed something lots of us are feeling now. I think we need to take each day at a time and let our faith take us through the days ahead. What a blessing in my life to have come across your blog! :)

Susie said...

Meadowview-That is the sweetest comment. Thank you so much. You really touched my heart. I really wasn't sure about posting this but I felt God really pressed upon me to do it. I'm glad I did!! Thanks again sweet friend.

Connie said...

Susie, I don't know if we are coming to the end of days or not, but I have heard others also say signs point in that direction. I have also known many who feel that God is communicating with them. Whatever is to happen, it is wonderful indeed to know that God is in charge and that his love is around us all the time. I enjoyed this post. :)

DP Nguyen said...

Hi Susie- Sometimes when I open my bible as well, I see a verse that really speaks to me. While I hope this is not the end of times, I'm not fearful. I've been doing a lot of Bible study and reflection myself. It helps as the world continues to get worse and worse. Take care!

Unknown said...

Susie, I think having these feelings makes us ponder about the direction in which our lives are going. Feeling the presence of God will enable and give strength to any individual to lead a better life. In the sense of becoming a better human being.
This is a thought-provoking post...

Susie said...

Daisy-It is a reassuring fact to know that God is always surrounding us with his love.

DP-Don't you just love it when you open your Bible and a verse does jump out at you!?! I love it when I'm looking for an answer and I find it instantly.

Kanak-These feelings definitely make me ponder the direction of my life. I know as long as I keep God the focal point of my mind my life will head where it is suppose to go.

marmee said...

susie,
thanks for giving in to the pressing you felt. i think it is so good to share a personal side of yourself and let others know who you really are.
like meems said to be ready is the key. i grew up hearing the rapture was going to be happening any time.
all i wanted was to be able to have a family so i wanted God to wait. now i feel ready anytime even though i have an amazing life so full of love and beauty. i am certain you were supposed to post this for someone that may not be sure what they believe.
have a great weekend.

Susie said...

Marmee-I hope it may help someone who is struggling a bit. That is why I wanted to post it. I know it should be easy to talk about Jesus but sometimes it just isn't. I will say it has gotten easier though; especially at work. Lots of customers are very open to conversation and you never know where that can lead. Plus my co-workers are very open-minded so that is easy as well.