Thief....

1 Thes. 5:1-11 Now, brothers, about times and dates we do not need to write to you, [2] for you know very well that the day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night. [3] 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.

[4] But you, brothers, are not in darkness so that this day should surprise you like a thief. [5] You are all sons of the light and sons of the day. We do not belong to the night or to the darkness. [6] So then, let us not be like others, who are asleep, but let us be alert and self-controlled. [7] For those who sleep, sleep at night, and those who get drunk, get drunk at night. [8] But since we belong to the day, let us be self-controlled, putting on faith and love as a breastplate, and the hope of salvation as a helmet. [9] For God did not appoint us to suffer wrath but to receive salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ. [10] He died for us so that, whether we are awake or asleep, we may live together with him. [11] Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.

When I was a Kid the thought of the second coming used to sacre me. I had been taught to believe in a pre-tribulation rapture - I'm more ambivelent about this now - so the idea of being left behind use to terrify me....

So in the fear, I missed what the Bible witers were really saying: that those of us who are living in the light of God actually have nothing left to fear. God will care for us, whatever pans out. Having responded to the love of the Gospel it is our task and response to live as children of light. Then maybe more of those who need to respond in this way will live as children of light too.