Prepared & Ready
As I begin my day, I’d like to be as prepared as possible for the day ahead. My wife and I also like to travel some with our 5th Wheel camper, and it takes lots of preparation for a trip. I think preparation is an important part of nearly every activity. I need to think beyond the start of an event or activity all the way to the end and be prepared for what is planned. Preparation takes a little time, but I’ve learned that it takes less time to be properly prepared than the scrambling that takes place when I’m caught off guard or I’ve forgotten about an important detail of my day.
Jesus starts preparing His followers about how His earthly journey was going to end and what things will look like when He returns. He spent about three years with them and I’m sure that they were amazed at how He navigated everyday life. When He started talking about His death, His resurrection, and His return they were confused and likely didn’t understand. He reminds them just how important it is to be prepared. Check this out….
37 “When the Son of Man returns, it will be like it was in Noah’s day. 38 In those days before the flood, the people were enjoying banquets and parties and weddings right up to the time Noah entered his boat. 39 People didn’t realize what was going to happen until the flood came and swept them all away. That is the way it will be when the Son of Man comes.
40 “Two men will be working together in the field; one will be taken, the other left.41 Two women will be grinding flour at the mill; one will be taken, the other left.
42 “So you, too, must keep watch! For you don’t know what day your Lord is coming.43 Understand this: If a homeowner knew exactly when a burglar was coming, he would keep watch and not permit his house to be broken into. 44 You also must be ready all the time, for the Son of Man will come when least expected. (Matthew 24:37-44 NLT)
I want to daily prepare my heart for the Lord to dwell there. This is the most important part of preparing and getting ready for the day ahead. I believe He goes before me. I believe He’s beside me and I believe He has my back.
My plans are meaningless and useless IF He’s not here and leading my steps. I want my day to unfold with eternity in view. I just don’t want a meaningless and mundane day ever. I want each day of my life to involve His plans and His Presence with me. My plans are self-centered and self-serving, and His plans always involve me serving others and reflecting His Presence in me. After spending some valuable time with the Lord, I’m prepared and ready for the day ahead.
Pressing On!
Dwayne