An Urgent Message

O. T. #2073  "An Urgent Message"

Nov. 23, 2021

Joel 1

LET IT GLOW

Like a mystery, what is Joel about to reveal to his readers and listeners? Can we hear the urgency and intensity in his voice? When something extraordinarily good or extraordinarily bad happens to us, we can't wait to tell a trusted friend. What Joel is about to say is of such importance that he addresses his audience of:

• old men, elders, who were respected citizens of the land;
• those inhabitants of the land;
• hearers, regardless of their age, occupation, social position, or sex;
• and the descendants of Israel; (verses 2-3)
• drunkards, careless people in the land interested only in their sinful pleasures; (verses 5-7)
• farmers whose crops will be destroyed, as well as flocks and herds; (verses 8-12)
• priests, who were called to lament, pray, fast and seek the Lord. (verses 13-20)

Joel's prophecy is not to be forgotten, but communicated to succeeding generations.

Has the gospel become so urgent to us that we share with our children and grandchildren? Do we share our testimony when we have opportunity? How important to us is what Jesus did on the cross for us sinners?

LET IT GROW

This prophecy is not to be forgotten. It contains two unique, never-to-be forgotten events, but remembered and told to Israel's descendants-the locust plague upon Israel and the Day of the Lord.

We will read more details of those two events. Has anything like this ever happened in your days or in the days of your ancestors? Can we imagine the tension and suspense of the readers and listeners? Well, what is it?

LET IT GO

May we share the Good News of Jesus Christ with urgency.

One day He will return to earth to take His children home. Will you be one of them?

Jesus is the only way to God and heaven.

Have you come to Him yet, in repentance of sins, admitting you need a Savior?

There is coming a day when everything will end. Are you ready?