Wake Up Call

Jeremy Smith

 

“Wake up, and strengthen what remains and is about to die, for I have not found your works complete in the sight of my God. Remember, then, what you received and heard. Keep it, and repent. If you will not wake up, I will come like a thief, and you will not know at what hour I will come against you. Yet you have still a few names in Sardis, people who have not soiled their garments, and they will walk with me in white, for they are worthy. The one who conquers will be clothed thus in white garments, and I will never blot his name out of the book of life. I will confess his name before my Father and before his angels. He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.” Revelation 3:2-6

 

It is time to wake up. That seems to be a familiar phrase used just about every morning in our house. Some days it is overheard as Amber is waking the kids for school; other days, it is more direct and with a heavier emphasis on me reminding myself that it is still a weekday and there is work to be done.

 

Here in Revelation chapter 3, Jesus is giving instruction to the church. Jesus is clearly stating that the church should know better. They have been taught how to live and the expectations of fulfilling a life centered around Christ. Yet, they are still chasing after their own needs and desires. James 1:22 says, “But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves.” It is a reminder that this race we are in is a marathon, not a sprint. Jesus goes on to remind us that we need to be sure we repent. That is turning 180° and moving in the opposite direction. James 4:8 adds, “Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded.”

 

We should be looking at how to build a closer relationship with God and not just check off a box saying yes this task is done.

 

As I read through this section, I like to add more emphasis to “wake up!” Now I am asking you, are you awake? Ask yourself these questions:

 

  • How am I showing Christ through my own actions?
  • Could I have handled that situation better or differently to exemplify what God has done for me?
  • Did I give all the glory to Him or am I going to be blindsided when He returns?