Always Be Ready

It seems that every time I turn on the TV, there is an ad for generators. These generators come on when your power goes off so you have a steady source of light. On May 19, 1790, the Connecticut Senate was in session and it was a dark day because of some wildfires in Canada. Abraham Davenport said, “I am against adjournment. The day of judgement is either approaching, or it is not. If that day is coming, I choose to be doing my duty. I wish therefore that candles may be brought.”

In Luke 12:35-40, Jesus used two illustrations to stress how important it is for His followers to be ready for His return. Verse 35 says, “Be dressed ready for service.” The reward for readiness is to be pronounced “blessed” or “it will be good.” (verses 37-38) Houseowners are the second readiness illustration. Matthew 6:20 says we are to be alert so thieves do not break into our homes. Jesus is telling us to always be ready.

Luke 12:35-37 says, “Be dressed ready for service and keep your lamps burning, like servants waiting for their master to return from a wedding banquet, so that when he comes and knocks they can immediately open the door for him. It will be good for those servants whose master finds them watching when he comes.”

Life is complicated. There will be times when everything seems dark, but Jesus calls us to stand watch and be ready. Like candles in the dark or a generator that starts when the power goes out, may our “Light shine before others, that they may see.” (Matthew 5:16)

Prayer – Come Lord Jesus! I pray that you’ll find me ready on that day. Help me to live now in such a way to draw others to You. Amen.

Luke 12:35 – “Be dressed for service and keep your lamps burning.”

By the Rev. Tommy Herndon
Images by Julia Florczak & Lilya Alis, courtesy of Unsplash