What Now?

We have many “obligations” as believers when it comes to discipleship and how we function in the body of Christ, I.e. the church. Jesus makes that clear in his final parables as noted in the Gospel of Matthew. (Matthew 25)

It is a rather interesting scenario when it comes to time management and resource management. Nevertheless, it is laid out rather distinctly. Our obligations consists of three elements:

1. Watch – that is be prepared

2. Be active – invest time, talent, and resources effectively

3. Minister to one another

Our role as Christians is not to change society, our role is to live our lives as a reflection of Christ. We are called to be uniquely bonded to God through His only begotten Son. That bonding expresses itself in a lifestyle that is intended to bring glory to the Father and love for one another.

In light of the proposed second coming of Christ a.k.a. judgment, we have certain responsibilities. We are to be prepared by making certain we have “resources” to last through the period of anticipation. We are to be active and involved in life through the investment of our “resources”. Whether those be financial, special gifts, or acquired talents. And finally, we are to do what it takes to minister to one another based on needs.

Now I cannot speak for anyone else – although I am prone to make observations from time to time – but I can say these are challenges for me. I often find myself absent minded when it comes to the return of Christ. I do not always know that I am prepared. I also know I have squandered talents and resources often laying them on the shelf to atrophy. The one place where I believe I have done well is ministering to others. That is not a horn-blowing observation, simply a matter of fact.  As well as I could? probably not. Yet, consistent and willing when I am aware of needs.

Whether Christ is returning today or not, these obligations or characteristics should be common to every believer, simply because we are believers.  As I indicated earlier, our role is not to change society, our role is to live in relationship to God in a way that is glorifying to Him. If that results in a changed society, so be it. However that is not and never has been the goal of Christianity.  My gosh, I have enough trouble trimming my own lamp and managing my own discipleship without having to think there is responsibility to all societies in all nations.

What now? I am called to watch, be busy, and careful to minister to the needs of my brothers and sisters in Christ. Doing those things may indeed bring a “Well done, good and faithful servant.” (Matthew 25:23)