Since we "cannot know the day [Jesus] is coming" (Mt 24:42), we must prepare to be ready to meet Him today and "settle with" Him (Mt 24:51). The Corinthians showed their preparedness by waiting "for the revelation of our Lord Jesus Christ" (1 Cor 1:7). We must also be prepared for the possibility that He might come back in a short time, for example, in a year. This means we must spread the Word of God with urgency as did St. Paul and the apostles (1 Cor 7:29, 31; Acts 6:4). Our constant preparedness could impact the salvation of thousands.
We must also be prepared for the possibility that Jesus might not return in our lifetime. We must prepare to be faithful and diligent over the long haul, to persevere, suffer, and pray without losing heart (Lk 18:1). We must prepare ourselves, for we will be called to work "a full day in the scorching heat" (Mt 20:12), and then return day after day, year after year to work for Jesus. The solidity of the Church is riding on our constant preparedness.
Work faithfully until the Master returns, whether that is soon or far off (Mt 24:46). "Stay awake, therefore!" (Mt 24:42) Prepare to be prepared.
| PRAYER: | Lord God, You have generously given me so much revelation and warning. May I lovingly spend my life preparing Your way in the wilderness of this world (Mt 3:3). |
| PROMISE: | "May the Lord increase you and make you overflow with love for one another and for all." –1 Thes 3:12 |
| PRAISE: | David lives as if Jesus were coming back today by doing his everyday activities for God's glory. |
Reprinted with permission from Presentation Ministries, a lay association of the Catholic Church that focuses on evangelization and discipleship through Bible teaching, daily Mass, the charisms of the Holy Spirit, and Small Christian Community. Their ministries include:
· One Bread, One Body
· Daily Bread Radio Program
· Annual Bible Institute
· Discipleship Retreats
· Guadalupe Bible College