Don't Be Deceived, Be Ready!

In the days of Jesus there was much anticipation regarding the coming of the Messiah and the Kingdom of God. We must give the Pharisees some credit here– it was on their lips far more than it is on ours today. However, their expectations differed from what was happening before their very eyes, and so they failed to see the kingdom of God in their midst in the person of Jesus. The disciples also needed to be taught concerning the day when the Son of Man is revealed.

Since those days, Christ has died, and Christ has risen. And now, some two thousand years later, we still need to hear and heed these words of Jesus, for Christ will come again. And this week, in Luke 17:20-37, Jesus teaches us not to be deceived by those who think they can determine the timing of his return (No one knows the day or the hour, not even the Son). However, when he does come, there will be no missing him when is revealed, nor will there be any time to make last minute decisions or preparations on that day. We are to be ready today and always, by grace, through faith, not clinging to the things of this world, but seeking the kingdom of God and setting our minds on things that are above. For, when Christ who is our life appears, we also will appear with him in glory! What a day that will be!