Being Ready
by Malcolm Wood
A little while ago my wife went away for over two weeks, during which time I had a list of things I wanted to do. Although we’ve now been in our new home several months there are still things needing to be done. These jobs were things such as, decorate the hallway, finish some tiling, fit some cupboard door handles, and fit some new lights.
My plan was to try and complete what needed to be done, so everything would be straight and tidy by the time Anna returned. I had a lot to do, but as I knew when she was coming back I could work to that end. This proved to be the motivation for me to keep going!
Before Jesus went back to heaven He said He was going to return, “When everything is ready, I will come and get you, so that you will always be with me where I am” (John 14:3). He didn’t say exactly when, but there are several clues throughout Scripture about when this is likely to be.
When we observe world events in the light of Scripture, it helps us have a better understanding of the significance of the days we’re currently living, and when we can expect the Lord to return.
If we are living with the constant expectation of the Lord’s return, how is that affecting the way we live each day? Are we prepared and ready for Him? Are there still things in our own personal life which we need to work on, so that we’re not ashamed when He comes?
How about our churches and fellowships? Paul talks about the Church, the Body of Christ, being ‘holy and without fault, as a bride without spot, wrinkle or blemish’ when her Bridegroom (the Lord) comes for her (Ephesians 5:27). I think many will agree that there’s still work to be done in that area as well.
As we anticipate the Lord’s return, our passion to reach those who don’t yet know the Lord should grow even stronger. Another look at the Lord’s final words while on earth should inspire us afresh, ‘Go and make disciples of all the nations, baptising them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you. And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age’ (Matthew 28:19-20).
There is, obviously, still a great deal of work for us to do, in readiness for the return of the King of kings. The question is “Will I be ready, and will you be ready?”
Jesus said ‘You also must be ready all the time, for the Son of Man will come when least expected’ (Luke12:40).
Prayer: Dear Lord, thank You that You said You would come back for us. This gives us so much encouragement to keep on with the work of Your kingdom You have called us to do. Please help us to be ready for You when You come back. Amen.
Malcolm Wood and his wife Anna became part of the Ellel family as House Managers at Ellel Grange in 1990. Since then they have been involved with many aspects of the developing Ministry. From 2001 until 2015 they were Directors of Ellel Scotland where they hosted several International Schools and Operation Blairmore and helped pioneer the exciting Creative Inspiration Weeks. They have three sons.
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