Mind your position
So the last will be first, and the first last. For many are called, but few chosen.” (Matt.20.16).
The certainty with which Jesus made some pronouncements is humbling. It calls for a reflection. The above words came after a long discussion about the reward that saints would receive at the end of the race. Jesus left his subject to discuss the reshuffling that would take place then. Mind your position, so you don’t lose out.
For some, it was a mere suggestion Christ made in the statement, that is, “many who are first may be the last”, note the difference. But he didn’t say “may” but “will”. He spoke with certainty that comes with the prior knowledge of what will happen. People will abandon their faith in such times.
Then many false prophets will rise up and deceive many. And because lawlessness will abound, the love of many will grow cold (Matt.24.11 – 12).
Some of the reasons many will be discouraged in the heavenly race in the end times include, rising of false prophets and increase in lawlessness among many others. These signs are already evident but there will always be a way out for the souls that are determined to scale through the difficult times.
The best antidote to losing your position is to avoid getting carried away by the razzmatazz of the noise around you. Stay focused. “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour”(1Pet.5.8).
© Olusola John.