“Therefore keep watch, because you do not know on what day your LORD will come. But understand this: If the owner of the house had known at what time of night the thief was coming, he would have kept watch and would not have let his house be broken into. So you also must be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you do not expect him.” ~ Matthew 24:42-44 (NIV)
In his lesson, Jesus uses both days and hours to make me think about his return in glory. He further emphasizes the approaching time of his return by using the suddenness of a thief breaking into a home.
The lesson is clear, and it is one I need to understand. The time is right for Jesus to return. He could come on any day or at any moment. This is why I need to be ready. Certainly my sinful flesh will question the importance of this concern. The devil will also do whatever he can to lead me to apathy, and the world will offer its share of distractions.
In spite of the temptation to put the thought of Jesus’ return on hold, now is the time to be ready. In order to be ready I need to listen to the Lord’s exhortations and encouragement. I also need to depend on his precious and saving work. He gave up his life so that I could live a life of repentance and forgiveness. He endured my shame and punishment on the cross so I could receive his glory. He rose triumphant from the grave so I could have the confidence of life with him in heaven. When I daily depend on what Jesus has done for me, I will be ready whenever he comes.
Time has a way of slipping by. We can become busy. We can become distracted. We can simply lose track of it. In some situations this will not be a major problem. In view of Jesus’ return, time is critical. I need to take Jesus’ words to heart, and be ready.
O precious Savior, prepare my heart to welcome you when you return in glory. Amen.
Living Hope Church 