When we lived in South Carolina many years ago, I remember when it was predicted that Hurricane “Hugo” could possibly hit.  The stores became packed with people as they went to purchase and store up on batteries, ice, food, and whatever else they thought they may need.  We all prepared for the storm the best that we could – trying to predict everything that we might would need if we were to lose our electricity for a long period of time.  Well, the storm did come through and do quite a bit of damage.  And, we did lose our electricity for about a week.  What I loved about the storm is that our neighbors all came together.  We shared what we had – our food especially, and we would get together for meals and cook out.  It took a storm to bring us all together and get to know one another.

In Matthew 24:23-44, Jesus is talking to his disciples and telling them that the Son of Man will come a second time.  He says specifically, “The sign of the Son of Man will appear in heaven…and they will see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of heaven with power and great glory…”  Jesus tells us what it will be like so that we will not get confused with false prophets who will try to lure us away from the Truth.  But, here is the really tricky part…Jesus says, “Keep awake therefore, for you do not know what day your Lord is coming…therefore, you must be ready for the Son of Man is coming at an unexpected hour” (v. 40, 44).  In other words, just as we prepare for a storm that is coming our way, we must be prepared for Jesus’ coming!

What does that mean for us today?  Spend time with Jesus so that you will know Him when He comes!  Be in God’s Word, go to church and worship with fellow Christians, and join in fellowship with each other and get to know one another.  When the time comes – whether you meet Jesus in your death or Jesus comes again, these are the people that will bring you comfort and joy.  Keep awake – pay attention, and prepare yourself to meet Jesus face-to-face.

Let us pray, Jesus, our Lord and Savior, we want to get to know you.  We want to know others who believe in you.  We look forward to you coming again, but in the meantime, help us to grow in our relationship with you.  In your name we pray, Amen.