Luke 12:32-40 (NRSV)
Read Luke 12:32-40 on biblegateway.com
Verse 32"Do not be afraid, little flock, for it is your Father's good pleasure to give you the kingdom. Verse 33Sell your possessions, and give alms. Make purses for yourselves that do not wear out, an unfailing treasure in heaven, where no thief comes near and no moth destroys. Verse 34For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. Verse 35"Be dressed for action and have your lamps lit; Verse 36be like those who are waiting for their master to return from the wedding banquet, so that they may open the door for him as soon as he comes and knocks. Verse 37Blessed are those slaves whom the master finds alert when he comes; truly I tell you, he will fasten his belt and have them sit down to eat, and he will come and serve them. Verse 38If he comes during the middle of the night, or near dawn, and finds them so, blessed are those slaves. Verse 39"But know this: if the owner of the house had known at what hour the thief was coming, he would not have let his house be broken into. Verse 40You also must be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an unexpected hour."
Devotion
I was raised with the reminder, “If you’re not early, you’re late”! My parents insisted that we arrive on time for appointments. From personal experience I understand Jesus’ teaching that you have to be ready. This is more than the “Be Prepared” motto of my Boy Scout days. It speaks to how I am to live my life with the expectation that Jesus could return at any time. I need to be ready!
This is not frightening news designed to scare me into the realm of God. Remember that it is God’s good pleasure to give me the kingdom. That is good news! My response to such news is to be ready when he comes. Relying fully on the faith that Jesus has saved me is how my preparation starts. Knowing that the Lord has given me new life in Baptism is further preparation. Using the gifts God has given for my witness and work continues the process. Light those lamps!
Prayer
My Sovereign, thank you for your care. Thank you for your blessings. Continue to make me ready, increase my faith, and anchor me securely in your promise. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.