THIS IS IT!

The statement “This is it” could be a statement of affirmation or that of declaration. As a statement of affirmation it could be a statement made in recognition of the unfolding of God’s plan in the life of a man or a woman. As a statement of declaration, it could mean a statement made in taking a stand against a particularly oppressive situation or circumstance in the life of a person. And for Michael Jackson, “This is It” would forever remain the millennium concert that never happened. The theme of the musical event that was once billed as the grandest comeback ever for any performing artist was in itself predictive of the permanent exit of the King of Pop from the musical scene. But this time, it was without all the applause, the ovations, the pomp and pageantries or the signature grand entries and exits that once marked Mr. Jackson’s entire performing career. The irony of Michael Jackson’s “This is It” is really in the exit of the King of Pop, not only from the performing stage, but more so from the stage of life itself. I couldn’t locate a more befitting quote anywhere than in these words of William Shakespeare, “All the world is a stage, and all the men and women are merely players: they have their exits and entrances; and one man in his time plays many parts.” Michael Jackson’s “This is It” would forever mark the tragic conclusion in the pages of a storybook that began in Gary, Indiana.


Whether it is in a moment of confrontation or in a moment of declaration, we all have “This is it” moments in our lives. A “This is it” moment could be a moment of confrontation with a reality, a purpose, or even a destiny. It usually marks a point of no return. It is really where the water meets the road. And when the water meets the road you are either swimming or you are sinking. It is the end of a story rather than the beginning of it. And it could be the moment you have been waiting your entire life for. For Jesus Christ, it meant the defining moment for the fate of all humanity. As recorded by John, “When Jesus therefore had received the vinegar, he said, “It is finished,” and he bowed his head and gave up the ghost.” [John 19: 30]. There is a whole lot of difference between “Is this it?” and “This is it.” The former seeks clarification while the latter signifies certainty. A “This is it” moment is the defining moment rather than a moment of uncertainty.


For Christians, “This is it” as a statement of declaration comes in moments of frustration with a life that is below God’s design and desire for us. It is the voice of a soul wearied by the repetitiveness of falling into the miry pit of sin as well as the cry of one who is not only fed up but also ready to trade the shackles of sin for the abundant life promised by Jesus Christ [John 10: 10]. “This is it” echoes the voice of the prodigal son, “Finally he came to his senses. He said, ‘How many of my father’s hired men have more food than they can eat, while I’m starving to death here? I’ll go at once to my father, and I’ll say to him, “Father, I’ve sinned against heaven and you.” [Luke 15: 17, 18]. Every Christian must recognize the “This is it” moment in his or her life. It could be the moment and the opportunity you have been waiting for and must never be missed.

K. George Olubodun,