Watch.

Be always on the watch, and pray that you may be able to escape all that is about to happen, and that you may be able to stand before the Son of Man.  Luke 21:36

I’ve never been one to get caught up in end-times speculation.  Jesus’ second coming and the terrible tribulations that precede it get closer with every passing day, of course, but believers historically have not done particularly well interpreting the seasons, let alone the dates.  That said, I look around at the world today and can’t help but wonder if we're feeling the early breezes of an apocalyptic front, the likes of which have never been.

One thing is for certain: Christ will return.  And as that day marches unstoppably toward us, it seems to me we need to avoid two errors.

Jesus specifically warned us not to go about in spiritual oblivion.  “Be careful,” he said, “or your hearts will be weighed down with dissipation, drunkenness and the anxiety of life, and that day will close on you unexpectedly like a trap.”  His advice?  “Watch.” 

Conversely, it is thought that some in the early church had quit their jobs, idly passing time as they waited for Jesus’ second coming.  They were so focused on his return – and so convinced in its imminence – that they rendered themselves useless for their here and now. 

I think the wisdom of Nehemiah applies here.  Returning to Jerusalem from exile, his task at hand was to rebuild the wall around the city.  But facing forceful opposition, Nehemiah struck a healthy balance of diligence and preparedness.  Let’s read from his diary: “Those who carried materials did their work with one hand and held a weapon in the other, and each of the builders wore his sword at his side as he worked.”

So we remain focused on our calling, even as we remain ready for Jesus’ return.  We don’t carry physical weapons, of course, so what does readiness look like for us?  In Luke 21, he has told us: “Watch out that you are not deceived ... Do not be frightened ... Make up your mind not to worry beforehand how you will defend yourselves ... Be careful ... Be always on the watch, and pray that you may be able to escape all that is about to happen, and that you may be able to stand before the Son of Man.”

Oh, and one more thing.  “When these things begin to take place, stand up and lift up your heads, because your redemption is drawing near.”

[The daily reading is Luke 21:25-38.  To read Jesus’ discussion about the end times in Luke 21, click here.]

Peter can't stay awake with the LORD -- Mark 14:32-42

Years ago, I had my own business and worked seven days a week. Sundays, I would get the crews settled on their jobs and then would attend church. There were a few Sundays when I could not keep my eyes open during the sermon. The pastor noticed, was aware of my situation, but did let me know that he saw me nodding off now and then. How embarrassing!

Can’t we all relate to wanting to stay awake; needing to be alert and attentive, but lacking the power? As I was reading this story (Mark 14:32-42), I found myself stifling a yawn. I couldn’t help it. Can you imagine how Peter felt when Jesus woke him up for the third time?

Did you notice Jesus had Peter, James and John come with Him, to a closer spot, to keep him company in prayer? Jesus wanted these close friends of His to pray. He knew they would be tempted and tested in the days to come. He wanted them to stay close to Him. Jesus wasn’t looking for them to pray for Him, he wanted Peter, James and John to be praying for their needs.

Jesus wants us to keep watch, to stay close to Him too. Prayer is how we do that. Feeling sleepy? Pray.

To read all the text for today go to Biblegateway and Mark 14. To return to this posting hit the back arrow.

We welcome your comments or if you prefer you may connect with us via email here.