Will We Be Ready?
Today is the day after the First Sunday of Advent. I have been looking for a devotion to guide everyone as we prepare for the Coming of Christ. I came across a devotion written by Rev. Larry Davies on November 14. Larry is the pastor at Virginia Beach UMC. I share parts of this devotion, as we prepare ourselves for the coming of Jesus. Larry talked about the word eschatology which is a study of the end-times. He says the major question is – “Will we be ready?”
In Matthew 25, Jesus gave the disciples a glimpse of the future. The disciples asked, “When?” Jesus said he would return, but the exact time and day were known only to God. Jesus stresses the need to be prepared. Jesus tells the story of the ten bridesmaids. Jesus says, “Be prepared!”(Matthew 25:13) We don’t know when Jesus will come again. We don’t know when our life on earth ends. But when that time comes, the only thing that matters is when we stand in front of God. “So, be prepared.”
As I read his devotion, I began to think that Advent is the same way. Jesus’ first coming was unknown, and the people had to be prepared. Advent is four weeks before Christmas, and it gives us time to “prepare.” We decorate our trees, wrap presents and buy the extra groceries, but do we prepare our heart for Christ?
Larry gives us four helps as to what we can do to be prepared for the Second Coming of Christ. These same four things will help us prepare for the First Coming of Christ. Larry says:
- Don’t panic – don’t overreact.
- Take spiritual inventory – take an honest look at your life with God.
- Deepen your relationship with God – our life of prayer, Bible study, worship, service within our church and community is so critical.
- Look around – you’re not in this world alone, and your relationship with Jesus was never meant to be private. You are placed by God on this earth for a purpose.
Whether you are preparing for the First Coming or Second Coming of Christ – “Be ready!”
Prayer – Lord, I want to be ready for Christ this Christmas. Help me be “prepared”! Amen.
Matthew 25:13 – “Be prepared!”
Author: Tommy Herndon
Image: Mantas Hesthaven, courtesy of Unsplash
