Wednesday 4 December - The Day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night

Readings:

Jeremiah 30:18-24, Amos 5:18, Mark 13:32-37

1 Thessalonians 5:1-11

Now, brothers and sisters, about times and dates we do not need to write to you, for you know very well that the day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night. While people are saying, ‘Peace and safety’, destruction will come on them suddenly, as labour pains on a pregnant woman, and they will not escape.

But you, brothers and sisters, are not in darkness so that this day should surprise you like a thief. You are all children of the light and children of the day. We do not belong to the night or to the darkness. So then, let us not be like others, who are asleep, but let us be awake and sober.  1 Thessalonians 5:1-6

Reflection

Are we nearly there yet! Is it almost time? How many more sleeps? It isn’t just impatient children restrained in the back seat of cars with copious amounts of  sweets and a DVD playing who seek an end  to their journey. The end is of course ambiguous—simply labelling a conclusion, but it is used to signify the end, a goal and a purpose. We all seek an end to something. Pain, frustration, waiting. What do you  long for an end to?

In both the Old and New Testament the pious hoped for the coming of the “day of the Lord” and the deliverance that only God could and would bring. That freedom they longed for—the prophets foretold and also warned Israel to be careful what they hoped for. This promised  “last thing” was to be also a time of judgement on God’s enemies. Amos 5:18 reminding us of days of ‘darkness not light’ for whilst its precise timing is not known, except by the Father (Mark 13:32) ,  it will be daunting and unexpected and it will bring light and hope.

Be prepared, be on your guard for the time will come—that we do know.

Prayer

Lord God I praise you for creating me and restoring me through Jesus.
Word becoming flesh, Word indwelling
Word transforming, Word restoring
Word challenging, Word healing
Word sharing  my weakness and making me whole

Word here now—O Come Emmanuel. Amen