four sure
"In the presence of God and of Christ Jesus, Who is coming to judge the living and the dead, and by His appearing and His kingly power, I charge you to preach the word." —2 Timothy 4:1-2
Think of four certainties: God's presence, Judgment Day, Jesus' return, and His power.
God is present because He loves us. He has not left us orphans (Jn 14:18). Because He is present, He knows completely our every thought and action.
Therefore, the Lord is in a position to judge us justly and mercifully. He knows all that we have done right or wrong. He loves us unconditionally. We must be aware of this coming judgment because we love Him and because of the overwhelming, everlasting results of Judgment Day.
Not only is Judgment Day coming but also the Judge, Jesus, is coming (2 Tm 4:1). He could return at any time. He is not only our Judge (2 Tm 4:8) but also our Savior, Lord, and God. We who are in love with Him can't wait to see Him soon and forever.
Because Jesus is the all-present Judge and Savior of the world and because He is coming again in glory, it is obvious that Jesus is all-powerful. Therefore, He can and will do all that He promised. He is always able to save us (Heb 7:25).
Aware of these four certainties, let us proclaim God's word and live for Him alone.
Prayer: Father, may I be in touch with reality.
Promise: Jesus "told them a parable on the necessity of praying always and not losing heart." —Lk 18:1
Praise: Praise You, Jesus, crucified, risen, and coming Judge, Savior, Lord, and God!
Reference: (For a related teaching, order our tape on Certainty on audio AV 59-3 or video V-59.)
Nihil Obstat: Reverend Robert A. Stricker, May 8, 2001
Imprimatur: †Most Reverend Carl K. Moeddel, Vicar General and Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, May 18, 2001