Mark 13:33-37
[Jesus said] Watch! Be alert and pray, because you do not know when the time will come. It is like a man going away on a journey. When he left his home, he put his servants in charge and assigned what each one was to do. He also commanded the doorkeeper to keep watch. Therefore keep watch, because you do not know when the owner of the house is coming: whether in the evening, or at midnight, or when the rooster crows, or early in the morning. If he comes suddenly, do not let him find you sleeping. What I say to you, I say to everyone: Keep watch!”
Applying God’s Word for today: Stay Alert: Living in Readiness for the Lord’s Return
As we prepare for holiday meals and celebrations, it is easy to become distracted by all that needs to be done. These preparations serve as a powerful reminder to remain alert, not just for events in our daily lives, but especially in our faith. Amid the busyness of life, worries about the future and the desire to keep everything running smoothly can draw our attention away from the present moment and what matters most.
Sometimes, we may believe that family is the most important thing we need. Indeed, God has given us our families to support us on our journey through life. Our families help us stay attentive—especially as we await the owner’s return, a reference to the end of our time of grace. While families and holiday gatherings are significant, Jesus’ parable teaches us that we fall asleep spiritually when we neglect our faith, ignore God’s word, or fail to participate in His sacraments. Without regular nourishment from God’s Word, our faith can slowly drift into spiritual sleepiness, making us less responsive to God and His promises.
Jesus’ command to “Keep watch!” is a call to stay spiritually alert. God has not promised us more time; all we truly have is the present. In God’s Word, we hear of His love, the redemption He accomplished through His Son, and the restoration He offers to each of us. Until the owner returns, our assignment on earth is clear: share God’s love and the promise of salvation with others.
Dear Lord God, our Creator, Redeemer, and Sanctifier, please keep us alert in this moment so that we remain ready in our faith and prepared. If this moment is our last, may we, by faith, stand ready at the door, trusting in You. Grant us opportunities to fulfill the work You have given us—to share the good news of salvation with others. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Our “close calls” may fill us with adrenaline, encouraging us to cherish each day. But, they should also serve as a reminder to strengthen our faith, to know our Savior, and to stay prepared at the door, trusting in His love, grace, and mercy right now. May you know Jesus’ forgiveness.