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Good Shepherd Lutheran Church Today's Frontline Devotion February 14, 2005 Are We There Yet? |
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Frontline Devotion for Monday, February 14, 2005 By Anne
B. Crawford
Matthew
24:36-44
When I was growing up, whenever my family traveled we went by car. Mom and
Dad up in front and us three girls in the back seat. We fidgeted; we
fought (“Mom! Jenny’s crowding my seat!” “Dad! Amy
won’t let me look out the window!”) But mostly, being children, we were
impatient and every few miles one of us would ask “Are we there, yet?”
Sometimes it was said in anticipation, often in frustration, and even,
ocassionally in dread (depending on the destination). No matter how many
times we asked, it didn’t change where we were headed or bring us to our
destination any sooner.
I wonder what the disciples were thinking when Jesus began to talk about his
second coming and they asked him when that would happen and how they would know
(what signs to look for). Jesus had just given a strong tongue lashing to
the Pharisees, promising doom and gloom to them (and all those who refuse to
believe in him) when he returned. Were the disciples looking forward to the
glory of Jesus’ return or were they perhaps a bit more interested in the image
of Jesus triumphing over their enemies? In either case, Jesus’ answer
certainly can’t have brought them much comfort. He spoke of wars and
famines and earthquakes and persecution for his followers. Bad times all
around. But even more disturbing, as he talked about the signs of his
return, Jesus told them they (and we) can’t know or figure out when he’s
coming back! His return will be at a time we don’t expect and we just
have to be faithful and be ready for him at any time.
In Jesus time and ever since, there have been people who claim to have seen the
signs and know that the second coming is about to happen – right now! To
the question of “are we there yet?” they would answer “Yes – we’re
almost there! – Any day now!” But that was never Jesus answer or
focus. His focus wasn’t on the when. His focus was on us. To
the question of “are we there yet?” Jesus response is a counter-question –
are you ready? – and a charge to be watchful and ready all the time.
Dear God, help us to be ready for you at all times. Grant us strength to
be your faithful followers, not out of fear of your coming again, but in loving
response to your present and abundant grace. Amen.
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All are welcome to join and share in our Devotional Ministry on the "Frontlines" of the world. Frontline Devotions are sent via email daily. Sign up by clicking on the box to the left. Pastor Dave welcomes feedback. Contact him at pastordave@goodshepherdonline.org. |
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