Matthew 24:33
Jesus said, "so, you too, when you see all these things, recognise that He is near, right at the door."
You've settled into your most comfortable chair for the evening, when the door bell rings and in exasperation you say, "who on earth can that be?" Today it is possible to see who is at your front door from your armchair by means of an electronic eye door bell. In fact by the aid of the internet it is possible to see who is at your front door from the other end of the earth.
In this verse from Matthews Gospel, I wonder what are the things that we need to see? Jesus is talking about difficult times that will face his followers. Yet he is quite clear that in spite of whatever we may face he is near, in fact right at our door. Jesus is not asking us to stay awake all night, but to live in the present, so that we can recognise the Lord when he appears in our lives. He shows himself in the unrehearsed moments, the interruptions and accidents that can throw me off balance.
The words of Jesus are an encouragement not to be deterred in the face of challenge or opposition. The loving attentive care of God the Father extends even to the sparrows, and we are of more value than many sparrows.
Father God, you have created me in your image and likeness, every hair on my head you have counted. You know all my concerns and accompany me on all life’s journeys. Help me to recognise your supporting presence and not to be afraid for you are with me always.
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