For years now people have predicted that December 21, 2012 would be the end of the world.  It’s (loosely) based on the ancient Mayan calendar.  We’re in 2012.  What if they’re right?

DISCLOSURE: Some people are naturally trusting.  I’m not.  If it seems too good to be true, I’m already out the door and two blocks away running at full speed.  Show me the proof, and then I just MIGHT consider your claim.  So when a new idea, theory, or prediction comes along, don’t expect to find me near the front of the choir.

So no, I’m not an advocate of the Mayan end-of-the-world theory.  But imagine if you were.  Imagine if you believed that in 11 months and 9 days it would be over.  Are you imagining that?  Now…

How will you live this next year?  What will you be sure to do?  What will you be sure to STOP doing?  How will you live your next 11 months and 9 days in light of the fleeting nature of your time left on earth?  Believe it or not, that’s actually a very good way to live.  In fact, it’s a very Christ-like way to live.  Jesus reminded his followers over and over again that this life is not all there is.  He urged them to invest in something BEYOND this life, (Matthew 6:19-21) and to live with the watchful understanding that the next life could come crashing in at any moment!  (Matthew 24:42-44)  And Paul reminded us to

…press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.  (Philippians 3:14)

When you live this way, it changes things.  It changes priorities and problems.  It puts a lot of things in a healthy perspective.  As one writer put it:

Those who think most of the next world do the most good in this one.

So you can do what you like with the Mayan’s calendar.  But this year, I encourage you to do something constructive with Jesus’ calendar.  Live this year like it’s your last.  And make it count for all eternity.

-Pastor Mark