Reading: Most people have played a game where the storm rolled in. The field tarp was quickly applied to the infield, but the game was called because of the major downpour. That rain came so suddenly, and definitely, no one was stopping it.

Christ’s second coming will come similarly, but even more stealthily. Peter is warning us so that we will be prepared. Jesus even encouraged the people to, “be dressed ready for service and keep your lamps burning, like servants waiting for their master to return from a wedding banquet, so that when he comes and knocks they can immediately open the door for him” (Luke 2:35-36). In what ways can we be ready?

First, we need to repent and believe (Mark 1:15). We have faith that he will save us when we put our trust in him, like a son walking off the edge of a pool with his father there to catch him – and that is where the relationship begins. Like in a friendship or marriage, the other person requires you to do certain things to show that you love them. You are saved because he chooses you, but then we act like it too. We turn from hurting the relationship to mending and growing the relationship, because we believe in it.

Then, we are baptized (Acts 2:38). Baptism is a symbolic act that shows what is happening inwardly. Scripture calls all of us to be baptized if we believe in Jesus’ redemptive work on the cross. In faith, you die to self, shown as going into the water, and then you come back up to life, shown as coming out of the water. This is a public profession of your faith, that God has become Lord of your life.

The rest of your life you are God’s, and you listen for his Word. You seek him. He directs your steps. One of the most chilling places in scripture is when Jesus says that he will say to some “I never knew you” on judgement day (Matthew 7:23). Don’t miss out on a relationship with Jesus in everyday life. He wants you to pray, to join in a community of believers, and to just walk with him.

Don’t confuse all of this with salvation. No one has ever earned salvation from God. However, he does expect relationship and has works prepared for believers to do in everyday life. This is how you can be prepared for the unexpected day when you stand before God and when he comes like a thief in the night!

God has open arms for you and wants you today to become closer to him.

Reflection: What step(s) do you need to take today in your relationship with God?

Prayer Prompt: Lord, I put things off, and I dismiss the very fact that I will see you at your throne one day. I’m so short-sighted! God, prepare me for that day. I want to love you with right motives – not for any other reason than it’s what you deserve as the creator of the universe. I understand that Jesus gave up his life for me and others. Help me to give up my life for others too. Move me to obedience in whatever area of my life. Draw me close to you. Help me to love my brothers and sisters. Prepare me for eternity.