Mark 13:24-37 (NRSV)
Read Mark 13:24-37 on biblegateway.com
Verse 24"But in those days, after that suffering,
Verse 28"From the fig tree learn its lesson: as soon as its branch becomes tender and puts forth its leaves, you know that summer is near. Verse 29So also, when you see these things taking place, you know that he is near, at the very gates. Verse 30Truly I tell you, this generation will not pass away until all these things have taken place. Verse 31Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away.
Verse 32"But about that day or hour no one knows, neither the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father. Verse 33Beware, keep alert; for you do not know when the time will come. Verse 34It is like a man going on a journey, when he leaves home and puts his slaves in charge, each with his work, and commands the doorkeeper to be on the watch. Verse 35Therefore, keep awake-for you do not know when the master of the house will come, in the evening, or at midnight, or at cockcrow, or at dawn, Verse 36or else he may find you asleep when he comes suddenly. Verse 37And what I say to you I say to all: Keep awake."
Devotion
As a child I would completely zone-out while watching TV. I was oblivious to everything. But, when my parents went out and told me to be in bed by 10PM and I was still watching TV at midnight, I had a super-power ability to hear the garage door's initial creek! I was in my PJ's, clothes picked up, and "fast asleep" by the time they came to my room. If I could have that kind of efficiency and speed all day long, I would have won the Nobel Peace Prize already. Twice. But I don't, of course, and therefore I haven't.
"Keep awake." Luther once wrote: The law says, "Do this," and it is never done. Grace says, "Believe in this," and everything is already done. The Good News is that Jesus is coming and we now have the joy of anticipating Christ's return every single day. He is coming soon!
Prayer
Amen! Come, Lord Jesus.