What To Do When the End is Near?

1 Peter 4:7-11

7 The end of all things is near. Therefore be alert and of sober mind so that you may pray. 8 Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins. 9 Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling. 10 Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms. 11 If anyone speaks, they should do so as one who speaks the very words of God. If anyone serves, they should do so with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To him be the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen.

Peter, like many after him thought the end was near. Near could mean a lot of things, but instead of being caught up with when it is going to happen, Peter focuses on what to do to get ready for it. Rather than running to hills and waiting for Jesus' return, Peter advocates living out their faith in the community.

Peter stresses several actions steps in staying alert and sober.

1. Pray
2. Love each other deeply
3. Offer hospitality without grumbling.
4. Use whatever gift you have received to serve others.

It is always easy for us to stew and worry about the end of the world. People have been doing it since the beginning of time. But Peter's message is get to work. Stop worrying about things you can't control, and be about doing the things you can control. Notice every one of the action steps is under our control. This helps us to be proactive and assertive and not afraid and passive as we await our Lord's return.

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