The Hour is Late

And Jesus went into Jerusalem and into the temple. So when He had looked around at all things, as the hour was already late, He went out to Bethany with the twelve. Now the next day ... Jesus went into the temple and began to drive out those who bought and sold in the temple, and overturned the tables of the money changers and the seats of those who sold doves. (Mark 11:11-12;15-16 NKJV)

The Lord is not slack concerning His promise ... but is longsuffering toward us, not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance. But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night, in which the heavens will pass away with a great noise ... both the earth and the works that are in it will be burned up. Therefore ... what manner of persons ought you to be in holy conduct and godliness ...?
(2 Peter 3:9-12 NKJV)

God is our refuge and strength,
A very present help in trouble.
Therefore we will not fear,
Even though the earth be removed ...
Be still, and know that I am God;
I will be exalted among the nations,
I will be exalted in the earth!
(Psalms 46:1-2,10 NKJV)

It is often perceived that Jesus rode into Jerusalem and immediately lost His temper over the nonsense at the temple. He actually slept overnight on what He'd seen there before patiently returning to clean house. Perhaps He gave the money changers and sellers a last chance to repent once they realized the King was on the premises.

The King has left the premises, but He promised to come back. He is giving everyone a chance to repent in the meantime. Some need to repent of rebellion, ask forgiveness, and receive salvation. Some of us need to repent of being lukewarm Christians. Some of us need to repent for doubt which delays obedience.

And all of us can continually ask the question, "What manner of persons ought you to be in holy conduct and godliness?" What is Jesus waiting for us to do?

The hour is late. When the King returns, will He find me doing what exalts Him as God?

Father in heaven, thank You for looking at me with love and not condemnation. I do not wish to disappoint You. Please make my heart to be still and know Your voice, to embrace what You ask of me, and to do it without delay. Please make all Your people ready for Your Son's return.

Feedback invited. Post to BuildingHisBody.com "Comments" or e-mail to BuildingHisBody@gmail.com. Copyright 2008, Anne Lang Bundy