Paul, in his first epistle to the Thessalonians, clarified further what the concept of “being ready for the coming of the Lord” is all about. He used the same analogy-being awake instead of asleep-and then described what “being awake” looks like:
“But you, brothers, are not in darkness so that this day should surprise you like a thief. You are all sons of the light and sons of the day. We do not belong to the night or to the darkness. So then, let us not be like others, who are asleep, but let us be alert and self-controlled. For those who sleep, sleep at night, and those who get drunk, get drunk at night. But since we belong to the day, let us be self-controlled, putting on faith and love as a breastplate, and the hope of salvation as a helmet. For God did not appoint us to suffer wrath but to receive salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ. He died for us so that, whether we are awake or asleep, we may live together with him. Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.” 1 Thessalonians 5:4-11 NIV
Jesus used the “thief in the night” imagery in the Olivet discourse (Matthew 24:42-43) and in Luke 12:35-40. The burglar’s approach is sudden, unexpected, and surprising. John the apostle stated the profound truth that “God is light and in Him is no darkness at all” (1 John 1:5-7). The beloved disciple also taught that we are “children of light.” Walking in the light connotes that we are open to the conviction and revelation of the Holy Spirit-we live clean lives with no “secret skeletons” in the closet. Christians of integrity have nothing to hide. What you see is what you get. A person who walks in the light also lives in the light of God’s truth. If Jesus taught us to be “in the know” about the signs of His coming, we would be informed, watching and waiting. A well-trained hunting dog remains on point until the hunter commands him to retrieve the prize. As believers, we must live with such alertness and sensitivity to God’s commands.
Why must we be ready? John tells us in 1 John 2:28:
“And now, dear children, continue in him, so that when he appears we may be confident and unashamed before him at his coming.” NIV
We have an opportunity to make every day count before Christ’s return. We can be confident when we walk intimately with Jesus. Living in the light of the urgency of our call and the hope of His rewards changes everything. Instead of walking in fear of future tribulations, we look forward to a bridegroom who has prepared a place for us!
What are your greatest fears about the future? List them here. God says that “perfect love casts out fear.” (1 John 4:18)
How would your daily priorities change in light of Jesus’ immediate return? Who would you see? What would you say? What opportunities would you take?
When you love someone who is away, you often call send them a card saying that you miss them and can’t wait to see them. Write a letter to Jesus and tell Him that in your own words.
APPLYING THE SCRIPTURES
Read the following and write your observations on the back of this sheet:
Genesis 3:1-14; I Thessalonians 5:1-11; Matthew 23-25; 2 Thessalonians 2:2-4; Romans 8:9, Ephesians 1:13-14; 1 John 1:5-7; 2:28; 4:18; John 10:27-30