Don’t go to sleep

Therefore let us not sleep, as others do, but let us watch and be sober. - 1 Thessalonians 5v6

I am afraid that the western church, especially in the large, prosperous nations, is a lot like my grandson AJ. He is only a few months old. At this stage it doesn’t take much to give him comfort and security. I usually get to babysit him at least once a week. After we play and chat for a bit he usually cuddles in on my lap. He sits there for a bit, in his mind at least, safe and secure, warm and comfortable. In a short while though his comfort leads to a lethargic dozing, and then his dozing ends up in a settled sleep.

Christianity has become far too easy in some parts of the world. Churches own vast amounts of property. On that property they have built marvellous buildings with amazing facilities. For the most part their members never have to worry about anything. They own houses, cars, and land and pretty much have whatever they want. Much like AJ sitting on my lap they are lulled into a false sense of security. I would give my life for him, but even that doesn’t mean he is really secure. All the stuff that the church has makes them comfy, cozy, and complacent. They cuddle in, fall into a lethargic drowsiness, and if they are not careful they fall asleep.

I think at times that this is just where the great Deceiver wants the church. He knows he cannot destroy it, he has tried. Make them believe instead that Christianity comes with all the ease and comfort. Make them believe that they are entitled to all the stuff that the world has. Use the stuff to make them comfortable and complacent.

Until the last few decades true Christianity has never been comfortable. This new comfort zone has made us complacent. This complacency has made the church drowsy and off guard. We are happy enough just to crawl up in Grampy Materialism’s comfortable lap, snuggle into his substantial belly, and go to sleep.

‘Don’t go to sleep’ God says. Wake up, watch, be sober, and be diligent. Jesus is coming back. We don’t know when. If we are not willing to step out of our comfort zone, into the face of the unknown, where the storms are tough and the giants are tall, then we are not really prepared for His coming.

Don’t go to sleep. Be ready. Jesus us coming again.