Ready?

Ready?

You also must be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour and a moment when you do not anticipate it. Luke 12:40 AMPC

Today's extract starts with a specific and emphatic focus on the target: ME. Jesus was speaking here to his disciples, making it clear that this message is not first for the world, but for those who have come to believe in Him and have made him Lord and Saviour. Does this describe me? Have I surrendered my life to God? I cannot hide behind corporate anointing, as precious as it is, as I must seek God out for myself, find him and follow him closely. He wants to guide me into earthly impact and eternity life with him, but I must align with his will and purpose for my life. He won't force himself on me, but if I surrender to him, there is no limit to what he can do with my life. 

So that there is no confusion about what today's extract says, let's look at the definition of 'ready': "in a suitable state for an action or situation; fully prepared", and also

"easily available or obtained; within reach". These definitions are so apt for the season we are in and the direction God wants for our lives. To be ready isn't about what I say but what I do on a regular basis. Like Daniel, before the test comes, I have already settled in my heart that there is no room for pollution. Like the 3 Hebrew boys, I must be settled in my heart that there is no room for any other god or man. Again, I ask: does this describe ME?

Like the disciples were told, so does God say to me again today: you must be ready at all times. Jesus, the son of man returns soon, and He is coming for those who are ready for him. You see, being prepared is just a small part of the puzzle; the main matter is to define what it is you are waiting for. It is very easy to get distracted by activity. Been busy is not the same as being ready. Am I living for earthly relevance alone, with no thought for eternal life? Am I focused on what I can get from God, with no concern as to what God would want from me? He saved me, but placed me back in the world so I can be his eyes, ears and hands, and show others the way to God. My service in this way is proof to God that I know he's coming back.

If there is advance warning that a thief is coming to rob, adequate safety measures can be put in place. If I can so respond to earthly threats, I must also likewise respond in the right way here, as Jesus already warns that his coming too will be like a thief. His return is certain; we do not know the exact date and time, but his Word has made clear what the signs of the end times are. We do not have the full details now but we have God's Word as the anchor for our souls, keeping us focused on both earthly impact and eternal life with God. Both are important; I have been warned; there is no excuse. God's time of favour is here.