PREPARED FOR THE REAL THING

PREPARED FOR THE REAL THING

READ:
Luke 12:35-40

Therefore you also be ready,
for the Son of Man is coming
at an hour you do not expect.
-Luke 12:40

Through the years quite a few people have predicted the return of Jesus at a specific time.  Just last year an American radio preacher sitrred up the interest of the mainstream media with his prediction that Jesus would return on May 21, 2011.

Anyone who knows Scripture well knew that this advance warning wasn't accurate, because Jesus Himself said His return would be "at an hour you do not expect" (Luke 12:40).  But I do have to admit that this prediction captured my attention.  Often I get so caught up in the business of life that I live as though Jesus' return is some distant reality.  I forget that Jesus could come back at any time.  The prediction, wrong as it was reminded me about the importance of being prepared for my Savior's return, and it renewed my excitement that it could be any day-even today.

Sometimes when we think of being ready for Jesus' return, we think about what we shouldn't be doing.  But being prepared is really about purifying ourselves and becoming more and more like Him so we are pleasing to Him when He comes back for us (1 John 3:2-3).  Jesus taught that being ready for His return requires living according to our Master's will now (Luke 12:47).  Will we be prepared when it's time for the real thing? -Joe Stowell

Keep me praying, keep me trusting
Every step along life's way!
Keep me waiting, keep me watching,
For He may return today! -Thiesen
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Look for Christ's return and
you'll live for Christ's glory.

INSIGHT
Today's parable illustrates the need for watchfulness concerning Christ's return.  Several of the house servants were waiting for their master to return from attending a wedding banquet.  Constant vigilance was necessary because they did not know the time of his return.  A condition is laid out:  If they are watching and ready, the master will serve them upon his return.  In ancient Israel, the second watch was 9:00 p.m. to midnight; the third watch was from midnight to 3:00 a.m. - challenging times to stay alert and aware.  The mention of the thief reinforces the need to be ready, for the Son of Man will come when you least expect Him.

Have a blessed day and week ahead.
God Our Creator' Love Always
Unity & Peace