When the roll is called...

Written by Eddy Amihere.

"But you, brothers and sisters, are not in darkness so that this day should surprise you like a thief. You are all children of the light and children of the day. We do not belong to the night or to the darkness." (NIV) 1 Thessalonians 5:4-5

Back in my high school days, there was a spontaneous event called 'Roll Call' where students are called to assemble. It was an event that caused fear and consciousness among most students. Even the notorious students often referred to as 'hardcore' students would not dare to miss a roll call. One principal reason why it caused such a panic and obeisance from a large population of students was the punishment associated with it. Students who were absent from a roll call faced strict punishment including dismissal from the school. Despite the consequences of missing out a roll call, there were always absentees.

In Christianity, we believe in the second coming of our Lord Jesus and the day of judgement (Matt. 24:30-31; Matt. 25:31-46). The judgement day, in my opinion, can be likened to the roll call although it is of a higher degree of seriousness. In this light, I hope we (Christian) will never dare to miss when the ROLL IS CALLED UP YONDER! The negative consequence is far greater. People who will miss out will wail and gnash their teeth because the punishment will be eternal (Matt. 13:41-42; Jude 1:7). The heavenly roll call will happen unannounced and the punishment is real and far more severe (1 Thess. 5:2; 2 Pet. 3:10). At this call, there will not be any favoritism as may be the case in human institutions. The judgement of the Just Lord is fair (John 5:30).

Beloved reader, will you be there when the roll is called up yonder? James M. Black (1893) upon feeling the disappointment of one of his Sunday school children failing to turn up for an important event said: "Well, I trust when the roll is called up yonder, she'll be there". That led Black to pen down this hymn:

"When the trumpet of the Lord shall sound, and time shall be no more,

And the morning breaks, eternal, bright and fair;

When the saved of earth shall gather over on the other shore,

And the roll is called up yonder, I’ll be there.”

Beloved, let us work our salvation with fear and trembling (Phil. 2:12) so that when the roll is called up yonder, you and I will be there. God bless you!

God, help us number our days || More

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