Anyone who has ever missed a bus, a train or a plane knows the frustration and self-recriminations that often follow. We should have double-checked the departure time. We should have left for the airport an hour earlier. We should have…
But if it’s possible to miss a connection with a definite time, how much more serious to miss a far greater connection, at a day and hour, moreover, known only to God? It does not seem fair! Why cannot God confirm the departure time from this earth in a matter so essential to our salvation? Throughout the last two millennia, some have tried second-guessing God, experiencing, at the least, embarrassment, or at the most, catastrophe, by attempting to predict that final day.
However, except for those now living, that final day has already come for every person on earth since Jesus spoke these words. Every death is individual—and final. So, while mere mortals cannot predict the worldwide coming of the Son of Man (verse 39), we can live our best lives for Jesus in every day he gives. And when that last day comes for each of us, we will be ready.
Gracious God, help us always to be ready for you. Amen. —