“The RoseBouquet”

I confess, I’m confused at today’s reading in this passage. I always thought it referred to the Rapture of the Church, but in verse 36, Jesus says, “No one knows about THAT day or hour, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father.” THAT must refer to the verses just preceding this passage. Then the chapter is referring to the Second Coming of Christ and not the Rapture. If THAT refers only to the fig tree illustration in verses 32-35, then this is talking about the sign that all these end times are about to begin, because the fig tree portrays that start of a season.

There is a description of people working side by side, and one will be taken (as a ready Believer) and removed, while the other person is left behind, in keeping with the Rapture in I Thessalonians.

It is reiterated that this event will sneak up without being announced because no one but God knows when this will happen. We are, Jesus says, to be alert and ready and waiting for it.

Life is going to continue as we know it until that time, just as in Noah’s day, people continued on their own way until God brought people into the ark, and shut the door. This illustration is a major confirmation that the Rapture will remove those God wants to preserve out of the Tribulation, just as He lifted Noah and his family above the waters that flooded the whole earth back then.

Ah, as I study and re-read this passage a few times I find myself convinced all over again a, that there will be two separate events, a Rapture of believers just prior to the Tribulation lasting seven years, and at the end, the Second Coming of Christ when everyone left on the earth will see Jesus arriving on a cloud!

PRAYER: Oh dear Lord Jesus, to us who believe right now, You are our loving Shepherd and Husband, who cares for us and provides for us. Those who will see You when You return as King Jesus, will see a different side of You. They will finally be in awe of You and fall down in fear and worship! Thank You for bringing me into the Church, which is Your beloved Bride! Help me to be alert and ready and watching for You!

+++++Jesus is my King+++++Jesus is my King+++++

Blessings on you Today!
Ruth Marlene Friesen

P.S. Are you an older sister? The one who is always expected to look after the younger kids? Well, here’s a book where the older sisters shine! Not just Ruthe, the heroine, but a lot of her friends are too. You ought to have a look at the sample chapters.