1 John 2:18-29

It's been a long week of poor time management, but it's so nice to arrive at this blog and take a breath. As I read the verses for the week, several phrases jumped out at me.

• Last hour - I know I always need the wake-up call to watch and pray. Every day is just a little bit closer to that glorious moment when we go to live with Him forever. I especially like the hymn phrase "The Bridegroom comes, awake; your lamps with gladness take; Alleluia!" (CW 206, I think.)
• Antichrists - I remember a professor telling us that "anti" can mean "against" but it can also mean "in place of", which is more subtle. As Caitlin was saying, may God defend us from all those would threaten our hold on Jesus, and open our eyes to recognize both those who go against Christ and those who try to usurp his place.
• Anointing from the Holy One - I really like thinking about Baptism this way!
• Remain in him - We breathe this in fervent prayer, for the Holy Spirit's aid. Oh, to remain firmly in Him, no matter the storms of life! For He has said, "Be faithful, even to the point of death, and I will give you the crown of life." (Revelation 2:10)

May God bless you all with many peaceful moments in His Word this weekend.