As we wait for special events in our lives we often mark them on a calendar. With each passing day, we may say to our friends and loved ones that there are only so many days left until our special day. While waiting we generally have much to prepare for the special day. Our preparation may include making plans for a special gift or maybe even planning a special party to celebrate the occasion. It is during this time that we run the risk of becoming so involved in planning all the details of the special event that we may actually lose sight of what we are preparing for.
Jesus warned His disciples, and us today, to stay awake, pray, and be prepared for His return. Jesus knew that they would undergo many terrible things for being His disciples. He knew there would be many temptations to lure them away from their faith. Jesus also knew we, too, would be subject to worries and temptations as we wait for His return. He did not want us to become so focused on the distractions, temptations, and events in our lives, however, that we abandon our faith as we wait for His second return.
Last Thursday, Christ came to us in the manger. He has also promised to come once again on the day we know as Judgment Day. This should not produce fear but instead an awareness that we must remain alert in our faith as we eagerly await the time when we stand before the Son of Man. Until that great day, let us be vigilant by daily seeking God in His holy Word and praying for strength to escape all the worrisome things happening in our daily lives. As Christ continues to come to us daily in His Word, we remember our Baptism and pray for forgiveness and strength to remain faithful. In doing so, we will certainly be found awake and waiting for the return of the Son of Man.
THE PRAYER: Dear heavenly Father, may we never grow weary or distracted as we await the return of Christ. Help us remain awake in Christ as we deal with the distractions of daily life. Strengthen and maintain us in the one true faith until life everlasting. In Jesus' Name. Amen
Written by Pastor Trey Rienstra
Our Savior Lutheran Church
Centerville, Texas
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