Watch!

In Mark 13:32-37, Jesus told His disciples "But of that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father...And what I say to you, I say to all: Watch!"

What if I told you that there was a million dollar check coming you way in the mail - would you watch for it? Or let's say that I knew someone was going to deliver a brand new truck to your house - would you not be peeking out the window every hour? Jesus told His followers to be on the lookout for His return. When was the last time we really looked?

Dear friends, this is the "Blessed Hope" of the Christian. We believe that Jesus Christ will return for His church. Paul wrote to the Thessalonian church that we should comfort one another with the words of the second coming. Could it be that since the church has been waiting for so long that we have grown complacent? Or are we fearful that Jesus will actually return in our lifetime?

What reaction do you have to these words?
- Fear?
- Uncertainty?
- Hope?
- Excitement?

I guess the answer depends on your view of the Second Coming of Christ. It also depends upon the security of your own salvation. You need to know that Jesus spoke of His return not to create fear in His believers but strength. They needed to understand that His departure was temporary. They also needed to know that our time to share His Good News would not be forever.

I say to you, and to all who will listen, WATCH!
We don't know the hour - WATCH!
We don't know the day - WATCH!
We don't know the season - WATCH!
We don't know the year - WATCH!
To be watchful for His return requires just as much obedience as it does to share your faith. This is the life of the obedient servant - to be watchful.

I pray that these words give comfort to you. If they don't, then I pray that you will take the time to examine your life before the Lord. I cannot tell you when Jesus is returning but I can tell you in full confidence of God's Word that His return is very soon. Be ready! Be watchful! Be encouraged!