How do you read the Bible carefully? You look for not only what it says but what it doesn’t. As I scour Scripture for end-times instructions, I have come upon 1 Peter 4:7,8. Here is what it says.

“But the end of all things is at hand. Therefore be serious and watchful in your prayers. And above all things have fervent love for one another. …”

That’s a big deal because of what it doesn’t say. It doesn’t say take care to plant your seeds in spring; store seven years’ supply of foodstuffs like Joseph did in Pharaoh’s day; get your financial house in order; pay off your debts; finish those projects you let go by the wayside.

Those are all good things to do but Peter’s “above all” counsel is:  “The world is ending! Quick! Go out and love people!”

A lot of us who think we have been doing as well as the next guy at loving people have actually been merely “managing” relationships—avoiding this annoying one; buttering up that important one; being superficial with this one; putting off a needed rebuke to that one; neglecting a thank you to the other one; giving a “lick and a promise” to most of our friendships.

The death of my spouse nine years ago was my own little “end times” dry run. And I testify that when the grim reaper or horsemen of the Apocalypse darken your door, you don’t start lamenting the condition of the larder, but how little you loved when you had the chance.