On Sunday we’ll begin our short series on Matthew 24. In it, Jesus answers his disciples’ questions, “When are you coming back? What are the signs of the end of the age?” In a simple, linear fashion, Jesus gives us a heads up as to events that will transpire leading up to his return. While it’s not for us to know the times or dates (1 Thess. 5:1), Jesus wants us to be alert, watch for his return, and the signs which signal it (Mark 13:37).

     The series is really an introduction into a part of the biblical story that is the subject of nearly 150 chapters of Scripture. It’s not meant to be an ancillary subject that the “end times crowd” obsesses over. It’s a vital part of the revelation God gives to us for our comfort, preparedness, and hope. In our series, we won’t be focused on predictions or guessing; we won’t get tangled up with numerology or the latest theories that may have appeared on a billboard. Instead, our focus will follow the Apostle Peter’s penetrating question: How should we then live? (2 Peter 3:11). My hope is that the words of Jesus in Matthew 24 will spur us on to dive more deeply into Scripture and to live with a loosened grip on the things of this life so we can bring him glory as the church.

     This would be a great series to bring a friend to, so take a minute to ask the Lord who he might lead you to invite. To complement the Sunday messages, I’ll be hosting two Q&A sessions about the end times on October 16 and 21 from 7:00-9:00 p.m. in Building A.

     On another note, if last Sunday’s emphasis on the plight of the orphan stirred you, here are two ways to make a difference right now:

– Costa Rica Mission Trip: From January 3-12, 2015, we will seek to share Jesus’ love with the many orphans who are fatherless in Liberia, Costa Rica. We will be leading basketball, baseball, and soccer camps, as well as VBS and Bible deliveries, so there’s something for everyone! The cost is $1,500 per person. For more information, contact Brian Hannas by

clicking here.

– Respite Care: If you would like more information on providing respite care, click here.