On The Damascus Road/The Coming of Jesus Syndrome

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On The Damascus Road
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The Coming of Jesus Syndrome      The world sits in anticipation as the year 1999 melts down to the inevitable, the havoc of an Old Testament-style catastrophe on January 1, 2000--Y2K. Many flock to Jerusalem. The number of visitors to Israel are skyrocketing as they ask, "Will Jesus come this year?"
     Some seek solace in millennium fever, doomsday visions, apocalyptic disaster or worse, complacency. Others impersonate Biblical characters as they visit the Holy Land emerging as holy people, wrapped in hotel bed sheets. John the Baptist is a favorite choice by far.
     Security in Jerusalem is being stepped up in anticipation of the year 2000. Extremist Christians may try to commit mass suicide or wreck the Al Aqsa Mosque, the third holiest site in Islam. Other believers wish to rebuild the ancient Jewish Temple to hurry Christ's return. Airlines report many one-way ticket sales to Israel. Land near the Mount of Olives is selling at very high prices; it appears that pilgrims desire front row seats when Jesus returns.
     Ironically, one hotel run by prescient Palestinian Muslims sent flyers to 2,000 Christian congregations in the United states asking, "How would you like to be staying at the Mount of Olives Hotel the day Jesus returns?"
     In early January, 12 missing members of a Denver-based doomsday cult were arrested in Jerusalem; they threatened to kill themselves to hasten the second Coming. Was this just the tip of the iceberg? Psychiatrists in Israel are in dread.
     Unfortunately, the media, fanatic extremists and others give a distorted view on the coming of Jesus syndrome. We do not know the time or the hour Jesus will return but in I Thessalonians 5:2, it says that the day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night; He will come suddenly. Matthew 24:3-8 gives us ample warnings about what to look for just before Jesus does return, but also warns us to be ready. Though millions of dollars are spent trying to pinpoint Jesus' return, the Bible states that we should be in continued service, faithful in using the talents we have been given. Are you ready for His return?
Contributed by George Prins.
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Originally appeared on Daily Wisdom

    Jesus is standing at the door to your heart all the time. He is knocking to come in and love you and guide you. He is offering you the gift of everlasting life, but you must hear Him and open the door to Him as He will not kick it in. (Rev. 3:20) A gift is just outside your heart's door at this time. Will you receive this gift? Will you open the door to Jesus and let him flood your soul with His love? If so, read the following paragraph as your prayer.

    Father, I know that I have sinned and I turn from those ways and ask you to come into my heart and cleanse me. I know that I cannot do this on my own and I need your help. Fill my soul, Lord, and make me whole. I want your will for my life to be preeminent. Help me to grow in your way.
    Amen

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