In the movie Ice Age: Continental Drift, many of the creatures are trying to save the world from imminent disaster. Two possums named Crash and Eddie, however, simply engage in fun and games.
Louis the molehog asks a series of questions about their escapism: “How are you both so happy? Doesn’t it weigh on you that the world might be ending?” At that point, Eddie reaches out his hand, pinches Louis’ nose, and says, “Beep.” Ultimate escapism! They didn’t give a second thought to the reality of the end of the world.
To illustrate a similar escapism mentality of the people who will ignore His imminent return, Jesus used the example of Noah and the flood (Luke 17:27). In the days before the flood (Genesis 6:5–7:5), life was business as usual for most people. Noah, however, spent many years building a huge boat as God had commanded (Genesis 6:14). The rest of mankind continued with their “human wickedness” and “violence” (Genesis 6:5,11). Life went on this way until the day it began to rain and the flood came and drowned everyone but Noah and his family.
By using this illustration, Jesus was warning people against false security and encouraging them to be ready for His return—for there will be no second chances. Some will go to be with Him and others will be left behind (Luke 17:30-35).
Like the escapist possums, many will be having too much fun to be concerned—shopping, playing, partying, celebrating, marrying—blocking out the reality of Jesus’ second coming. One day He will return, however. Let’s make sure we’re personally ready for this reality. And let’s tell others about God’s love and mercy and help them prepare for Jesus’ return!
NLT 365-day reading plan passage for today: Acts 28:15-31
More:
Read Romans 13:11-12 and see why it’s important for us to enter fully into the reality of Jesus’ return and to tell others about Him.
Next:
What is the plight of those who do not know and follow Jesus? Who are the “Crashes and Eddies” in your life that need to be awakened to the reality of the gospel and Christ’s return?
Gary Shultz on November 19, 2014 at 5:30 pm
It is amazing to watch this phenomenon. Some times I wonder what it would take for reality to be noticed. Then you happen to see folks that the bottom has dropped out of their life and there is a little more soul searching. it’s difficult to reason with those on the party wagon.
Roxanne Robbins on November 19, 2014 at 6:36 pm
American society presents a strong temptation to seek to be known via social media fame, etc. rather than to know the One most worthy of intimately knowing.