Jesus is coming!
by Norbert Restrepo
Christ’s coming will take place in the darkest period of this earth’s history. This sounds like an oxymoron because we consider the Dark Ages as something of the past; we are living beyond the Enlightenment period. Our world today has the accumulated knowledge of all previous civilizations plus cutting edge technology.
Notwithstanding these valuable achievements, humanity faces increasing crime, pain, and suffering. Even the most developed nations live in fear of terrorism and meaningless massacres. Whether in the dark alleys of poverty-ridden cities, in remote villages of pagan countries, or in the prestigious halls of universities in developed countries—bullying, sexual assaults, and crime lay evidence that human progress has not subdued evil.1 Why? Because the only way to conquer evil is by victory over sin!
“At this time a message from God is to be proclaimed, a message illuminating in its influence and saving in its power. His character is to be made known. Into the darkness of the world is to be shed the light of His glory, the light of His goodness, mercy, and truth.”2
God has called us to “Arise, shine.” But this will only be possible if the “glory of the Lord is risen” upon us. Isaiah 60:1–3. What is the glory of the Lord? It is His character. God’s self-renouncing love is the power that can transform our characters and motivate us to serve others. God yearns to give us this experience; He desires to fulfill His promise in us.
But, “before we can carry the message of present truth in all its fullness to other countries, we must first break every yoke. We must come into the line of true education, walking in the wisdom of God, and not in the wisdom of the world. God calls for messengers who will be true reformers. We must educate, educate, to prepare a people who will understand the message, and then give the message to the world.”3
It is our privilege and duty to educate our church members and youth to experience victory over sin. Overcoming sin is only possible through the power of God. His grace will be imparted to us when we know Him personally and surrender our lives completely to Him. May this be a foundational element in our homes, churches, and schools so that we may truly be a light in the midst of darkness!
1 “Here Are the 55 Colleges in America Facing Federal Sexual Assault Investigations,” National Journal, May 1, 2014, www.nationaljournal.com.
2 White, Ellen G., Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 415.
3 White, Review and Herald, Feb. 6, 1908, p. 393.