Matthew 24:36-44
Find a place and time free of distractions for the next 7-10 minutes. Sit comfortably and breathe deeply for a few seconds before you begin. As you breathe in, say the name of Jesus and become aware of his presence with you. As you breathe out, open your mind and heart to receive whatever Jesus has for you today.
As we listen to Jesus’ closing remarks about future events that signal the end of time, read Matthew 24:36-44 stopping to notice anything that stands out to you.
In keeping with the nature of prophecy, Jesus moves from present to future to far future throughout Matthew 24. Some of the events in this prophetic discourse came to pass in the lifetimes of the first century disciples while others occurred around 70AD when the Romans set siege to Jerusalem and desecrated and then destroyed the temple. Still other events are yet to come. In today’s passage, Jesus explains that the timing of these far-future events is known only to God the Father.
Why should we be concerned with things we cannot know? Jesus answers that question clearly with two words: “stay awake.”
Because of the broken nature of the world, we can easily fall asleep to the deeper realities of life. We can become caught up in our ambitions or simply slip into mundane routines and remain numb to the presence of God and the signs of the times all around us.
Stop to center yourself on Jesus for a moment. Then take some time to assess how aware you have been of God’s presence with you for the past few weeks. You might consider how often and how naturally you’ve turned to God to share your thoughts or to pray for someone or about something. You could also take note of how often you’ve been reminded of God’s presence when you encountered beauty or sadness.
Turn these thoughts into a prayer and speak openly with Jesus about them.
Read Matthew 24:36-44 again noting anything new that stands out.
If we are centered on Jesus, these prophetic pronouncements shouldn’t cause us to fear. Rather they should be a resounding reminder to stay awake, be aware, and be present to our lives and to the signs around us. We have been given that which we could never deserve – grace upon grace. Our part is to remember that every day.
Frederick Buechner expressed the grace of God like this: “Here is your life. You might never have been, but you are, because the party wouldn't have been complete without you. Here is the world. Beautiful and terrible things will happen. Don't be afraid. I am with you. Nothing can ever separate us. It's for you I created the universe. I love you."
Go to silence for a moment and let these words lifted straight from Scripture pour over you: “Don’t be afraid. I am with you. I love you.” Then get quiet and listen for Jesus’ voice.
What do you sense Jesus saying to you today?
How will you respond?
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The Everyday Jesus Follower’s Guide ebook can help you learn how to recognize God's voice, how to read and understand the Bible, how to develop deep spiritual friendships, and how to become the person you were meant to be. Use it alone, with a friend or in a small group.
