By Zoe Cannon
Gratitude for the Gift of Faith
“He who has ears to hear, let him hear” (Matthew 11:15).
This important passage is mentioned six times in the Gospels. The words, “let him hear” are not meant to be an outward physical understanding, but intended to be an inner spiritual listening. In biblical times, hearing people speak was the primary means of receiving information because the written word and literacy were not widespread.
Our ability to access information from multiple sources is convenient, but overloaded and sometimes confusing. I checked the screen time usage on my phone and realized how much precious time I was wasting. I started reading the Bible instead and found invaluable knowledge in my searches.
We need to read Scripture where the voice of Jesus is the Word of God. There is no other way to be fully aware of his great love and the price he paid on the cross for us. The salvation history narrative is about our inheritance in the Kingdom of God … life eternal!
The term eschatology comes from the Greek words eschatos — “last” and logia —“study”, which literally means the “last things.” Eschatology starts and ends with all that God has done, but the word eschatology is never mentioned in the Bible. Everyone should know the meaning of this word because it provides a warning about repentance and salvation. Eschatology is the final part of earth’s history, the death, resurrection and judgement of the world. The Second Coming will be the fate of humanity in the battle between good and evil. The reference to the last things of a sinful world is actually good news for believers because the only things that will end forever are sin, and the followers of Satan who reject God. Those who understand this warning will have their reward in heaven.
The 24th and 25th chapters of Matthew are about the Olivet Discourse from Jesus. This extended teaching on the Mount of Olives is about the end times. He is not speaking to the Church, but to Israel and God’s future plan for them. He spoke of a seven year period of tribulation, the destruction of the Temple, chastisement, persecution and judgement. Jesus warned of a false messiah, natural catastrophes, and the opportunity for people to realize their sinful state and receive their Savior. Jesus said this would be the worst time on earth. The disciples privately asked Jesus when all this would happen, and he told them only God the Father knows the time.
Live in the state of constant preparedness, and don’t be lukewarm in a world filled with deceit. I pray those with ears will hear the Word of God and be ready, not just physically hearing but interiorly listening from the soul.
The Advent Season begins Nov. 30, a time of prayer and anticipation. The Latin word ‘adventus’ in Greek translation is parousia — the “arrival” of God in human flesh and the Second Coming of Jesus Christ. The Gospel for the first Sunday of Advent is from Mathew 24:36-44. Prepare for Advent by reading the 24th and 25th chapters of Matthew with your family. Let your ears hear, so you will be spiritually prepared. May this Advent Season be the best time on earth for you and your family! Amen!