Even though Jesus had tried to prepare them, the crucifixion still caught his disciples off guard.  Their Messiah, their King, their friend…  was gone!  Without knowing what Sunday would hold, I just imagine how silent and empty that Saturday felt.

Even though we live with the anticipation of Sunday, sometimes I think we get caught up in that “silent Saturday” mentality.

In Matthew 24, we see Jesus teaching His disciples about His return.  Reading Matthew 24, my initial response is to want to dive into the deeper meaning.  What do all the events Jesus’ describes point to?  When will all this take place?   Who will be taken and who will be left?  It’s easy to become overwhelmed, caught up in the eschatological implications of Jesus’ words…  which is precisely why it’s so important to keep reading.

Matthew 25 contains three parables that bring great balance to our end times/return of Christ anxiousness.

In light of Christ’s return, we are to Be Focused.

“No one knows about that day or hour, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father.”

Our focus should not be on the when.  It should be upon the what, the mission.  Jesus says that the gospel will be preached throughout the earth, and then the end will come.  Don’t be distracted.  It reveals your priorities.

In light of Christ’s return, we are to Be Fearless.

“Whenever you are arrested and brought to trial, do not worry beforehand about what to say.  Just say whatever is given you at the time, for it is not you speaking, but the Holy Spirit.”  Mark 13:11

Jesus promised that he would be with us to the very end of the age.  In His presence, fear flees.  Don’t become fearful.  It reveals your awareness of God’s presence.

In light of Christ’s return, we are to Be Vigilant.

Jesus tells the parable of the ten virgins awaiting the return of the bridegroom, half of whom were unprepared when He arrived.  The point.  “Therefore keep watch, because you do not know the day or the hour.”  Don’t become complacent.  It reveals your view of God.

In light of Christ’s return, we are to Be Faithful.

Jesus tells the parable of the talents. The servants who were faithful with what was entrusted to them were given even more.  Jesus point.  “For everyone who has will be given more, and he will have an abundance.”  Don’t neglect the “little” stuff.  It reveals your character.

In light of Christ’s return, we are to Be Engaged.

Jesus tells the parable of the sheep and goats.  The king separates them, welcoming the sheep into his eternal kingdom to receive their inheritance.  Jesus point.  “Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of Mine, you did for Me.”  Don’t overlook the people around you.  They reveal your heart.

Be Focused, Fearless, Vigilant, Faithful, Engaged.  Our King will return!

 

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