“Be dressed ready for service and keep your lamps burning, like servants waiting for their master to return from a wedding banquet, so that when he comes and knocks they can immediately open the door for him.” (Luke 12:35-36)
During my pregnancies, as my due date approached, I would begin to prepare. My hospital bag would be packed, the freezer stocked with meals, and the car seat installed. I wanted to be ready for when that little person I was carrying was ready to come into the world and join our family.
I, of course, had a due date to help me know when the baby was coming. It is easier to be prepared when you have an idea of when your preparations will be needed.
But there is no due date for Jesus’ return, nor for our return to Him. We won’t know when He is coming, or when we will be leaving. So how do we prepare for something when we do not know when it will happen?
By remaining vigilant.
Jesus spoke of being “dressed for service” and keeping “lamps burning.” But maybe in our times that looks more like being rested so that we can pour our energy into our children and families. Maybe it means spending quiet time in prayer and reading our Bibles to center ourselves in our faith. Maybe it means keeping ourselves healthy so that we can answer God’s call when He needs us to minister to our communities.
As you start your week, remember to remain watchful. Don’t be distracted by the frustrations and tasks that can overwhelm your day. Train your focus on things beyond this world. And be prepared.
Have a blessed Monday!
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