"Now learn this lesson from the fig tree; As soon as its twigs get tender and its leaves come out, you know that summer is near. Even so, when you see all these things, you know that it is near, right at the door." (Matthew 24:32-33) Jesus warned his disciples on more than one occasion to be alert, to be aware of the season they were in. These words may never ring truer than they do today, yet do we really perceive what season we are in?

In the next chapter in Matthew, Jesus entreats us to be watchful. He cautions us to be ready, then he expounds on this through the following parables: the wicked servant, the ten virgins, the talents. Each parable further illustrates the importance of being prepared and being faithful. Are we either? Some may say the Lord's coming is far off and they may be right, however we are to live each day ready to give an account to the Lord wether He returns swiftly or tarries. If this is so, we need to take time now to be prepared. Now is the time to examine your lifestyle, your heart attitude, your priorities.

What would you consider to be the most important task for a believer in this life? Would you say worship? I love to worship the Lord but I don't think that is it. Would you say teach the Word? I love the Word but again I'd say no. How about to get you all fixed up, cleaned up? Well, that is what the Lord does once we surrender to Him but again I'd have to say no. I believe that the most important thing that we as believers can do while we are left here on earth is to be witnesses of Christ. Isn't that why He left us here? You see all those other things are good. They are real good, yet we don't need to be here to do them. We will all worship God is heaven one day, and we will have the Word before us night and day. We will then be spotless, without blemish, the redeemed of the Lord, dressed in white linen. The only thing we will no longer need to do is help others to know Jesus before it is too late. That is the only reason God brings you to himself, saves your soul and then leaves you here on earth. If that were not the case why not just save you and kill you? You know what I mean, just bring you home to heaven right there and then. Because, our # 1 function here on earth is to be His hands, His eyes, His voice and His feet to the world. He has chosen us to be His body here on earth. It is not all about me, or you it is about THEM. We're in. We're OK. There are still millions going to hell, however, the fields are ripe for the harvest.

Someone recently shared a testimony with me about a young woman who was led by a small boy with Down's Syndrome to pray on a bench in a busy town on Long Island. She sat and prayed with him when suddenly a man came over to them and started asking questions. Somehow the subject turned to spiritual matters and she led him to the Lord right there. Before he left another guy came across the street to them and began asking similar questions. He too came to the Lord. The little boy needed to go home, so she drove him home. The Lord then prompted her to return to the bench. In obedience she did. Twelve school age children approached her and began asking questions about God. She had the privilege of introducing each one to Jesus. Fourteen people prayed that day for Jesus to change their lives. One faithful servant made herself available. I was amazed by this story because this was not a seasoned evangelist, or a full time minister. She was simply someone who God used.

What about you? Are you someone God can use? Do you make yourself available? Do you even hear Him when He calls? It is time to shut out the noise of the world and listen for the Shepherd's voice. He is calling His sheep. He is seeking those who will go for Him. Those who will speak for Him. You don't need to be an evangelist, just available. He will enable you to do all that He has called you to do. It is not up to you, it is up to Him. No pressure. Just show up.

Alvin Slaughter once said "God is not looking for vessels of silver or gold. He is just looking for yielded vessels." I couldn't agree more. Being a vessel isn't too difficult, however, you will need to be available and you will need to be empty. He is able to take our weaknesses and pour out His strength. He will take our humility and glorify His Son. It is about what He can do, not what you can't. He isn't interested in your excuses. He knows the truth.

Don't be caught without oil in your lamp. Jesus is coming back for His faithful servants. Don't be deceived. God will not be mocked. You will reap what you have sown. What have you sown in His kingdom? The kingdoms of this earth will someday pass away. His is an eternal kingdom. Don't despair. Our Lord is merciful. It is not too late. Even the eleventh hour workers received their wage.

We can help. . . Building the Kingdom Ministries makes available music CDs with a gospel message and salvation prayer. The music reaches the soul while the prayer penetrates to the spirit. They are being used around the world to lead many to Jesus. Just another way of reaching out with the gospel of Jesus Christ. Go to www.btkm.org to listen to a sample. Kathy's Place Bookstore on Main St. in Center Moriches has copies of all three CDs. Stop by and ask Chris to play one for you.

The birth pangs have begun. The leaves are green. The Master is soon returning. Let us be found about our Father's business before it is too late. May you walk in His grace. Thy kingdom come!

Building the Kingdom Ministries, located in Nashville, TN , is a non-profit organization dedicated to sharing the Gospel of Jesus Christ with the world through such avenues as community outreaches and music evangelism. Visit them on the world wide web at www.btkm.org.

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