Are You Ready

“You also must be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect.”

(Luke 12:40)

What am I supposed to be doing to make sure I'm ready? Why do I worry about serving a master most people don’t believe in? Why do I work for a kingdom no one can even see? Christ hasn’t come in almost two thousand years; why should I be concerned about it now? If the Son of Man is even coming back, what makes me think it won’t be for another thousand years? If I always have to stay ready will that hinder my efforts to share the gospel with unbelievers? These are some of the questions I have been asked over the years; usually in a mocking tone.

For me, being ready, means I serve. It’s as simple as that. I serve my Lord, I serve my spouse, I serve my church, I serve others. Jesus came the first time as a servant to all. His life is the example by which I try to live by. I’m certainly not perfect, nor will I ever be but I continue to try. Being ready may manifest itself in a totally different way for someone else. God has different plans for each of us. Some might go out into the world to spread the gospel. Still others, like me, will share the good news right where they are.

Jesus is coming; when, I don’t know but I will be ever vigilant, waiting as patiently as I can for him. I am going to read and study his Word and look for the areas of my life I can apply what I’ve learned. I will always be thankful to God for what he’s done for me. I will praise him for saving such a wretch like me. I will always love him who loved me first. I will pray for my family and friends who do not know him yet.

I don’t know when Jesus will return. I only know someday, he will. I want everyone to know I’m on his side, I don’t want there to be any confusion as to whether I’m a Christian or not. I want all to know I’m a follower of Jesus Christ, without question or reservation. The next time he comes, he will not be coming as a servant but as a judge. He won’t be born in a lowly stable but come as a conquering king. If you're not ready by then, it will probably be too late.

Oh God, you are the master of all things and your timing is always perfect even though we don’t always understand the reason you tarry. For almost two thousand years now, people have been asking when will Jesus return. We are sometimes mocked for our belief in his return, but we will not falter. We are followers of the Lord Jesus Christ, we are not just fans, sitting on the sidelines waving banners, we’re in the game. We’re running the race and are looking forward to the finish line when we will be with our Lord. We are ready for his return, but we know our timing is not yours. Jesus will come on the day you say, and not before. However, knowing that, does not make us any less impatient. While we wait, Lord, help us to be productive workers for your kingdom. Give us the zeal and the courage to share the gospel with everyone we meet. Remind us to not only be diligent in our study of your Word but in finding ways to put that knowledge to work in our lives. We only want to always be in right standing with you, Father. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen!