ANTICIPATION OR DREAD?

ANTICIPATION OR DREAD?

2 Tim 4:8

8 Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing.

Heb 10:25-27

25 Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.

26 For if we sin wilfully after that we have received the knowledge of the truth, there remaineth no more sacrifice for sins,

27 But a certain fearful looking for of judgment and fiery indignation, which shall devour the adversaries.

           The word “anticipate” according to Merriam-Webster is defined as 1: to foresee and provide for before hand. 2: to look forward to. Generally it is a word that is used when we eagerly look forward to some happy event in the near or distant future. For instance, if you look at the calendar you will see that we are more than half way through the year and Christmas is just around the corner! The feeling you get when you think of these things is anticipation.

           The word “dread” according to Merriam-Webster is defined as 1: extreme reluctance to meet or face. 2: great fear especially of some harm to come. So the writer of Hebrews urges us to assemble together for mutual strength and encouragement because the day is approaching. Those who are unprepared either ignore that coming day or they have a certain fearful looking for of judgment.

           Jesus stands in the middle of a divided audience half of whom are eagerly looking forward to meeting Him while the other half cowers in great dread. Which is it with you, my friend; anticipation or dread?

Dear Lord, there is an electric feeling to my anticipation today. Oh, how I look forward to this day of worship and to that great day when I will see you face to face. AMEN