Sometimes someone will say, “I will pencil you in.” What is expressed with that is the appointment or notation is not fully confirmed. The hope may be for it to be so, but at the moment it is noted tentatively or temporarily. Writing with a pencil provides the ability to later change or erase what has been written; the writing is not final or firmly set! Because we are not always fully aware of the things which may come up, this is how we sometimes schedule.
In the Psalms we read. . .
“(22) The stone that the builders rejected has become the cornerstone. (23) This is the Lord’s doing; it is marvelous in our eyes. (24) This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.” (Psalm 118:22-24 ESV)
Though verse twenty-four is often quoted alone and provides a good thought, clearly the specific reference is to Jesus who would be rejected by many. It was a day anticipated and a day which came. Paul noted that coming according to God’s schedule where we read. . .
“(4) But when the fullness of time had come, God sent forth his Son, born of woman, born under the law, (5) to redeem those who were under the law, so that we might receive adoption as sons.” (Galatians 4:4-5 ESV)
God had a plan to send the Son and according to His plan it happened. He who has the knowledge to declare the end from the beginning (Isaiah 46:10) is able to plan in such a manner. But what about that which is yet to come?
As Paul spoke in Athens about the true God and the coming judgment of Jesus, he stated. . .
“(29) Being then God’s offspring, we ought not to think that the divine being is like gold or silver or stone, an image formed by the art and imagination of man. (30) The times of ignorance God overlooked, but now he commands all people everywhere to repent, (31) because he has fixed a day on which he will judge the world in righteousness by a man whom he has appointed; and of this he has given assurance to all by raising him from the dead.” (Acts 17:29-31 ESV)
Yes, a day is coming. A time is scheduled. However, many dates for that have been printed in ink and published which have come and gone. Should those notations have been made in pencil instead? No! Those who made those predictions should have taken Jesus at His word as He taught. . .
“(36) But concerning that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of heaven, nor the Son, but the Father only.” (Matthew 24:36 ESV)
Not knowing when means we have been called to live prepared for whenever it comes! (i.e. Matthew 24:42-44; Matthew 25:1-13) God knows! God has scheduled a day! May we trust God as we live prepared for and eagerly anticipate that which will come according to His set timing!
Have a great day TRUSTING IN GOD’S SCHEDULING!
Carl
