Unannounced Return

Photo Credit Donna Tuso

Seasons. They are as predictable as day turning to night. One follows the other like a scripted march of passing time. You know when they are changing. There are subtle hints and then a full blown expression of the uniqueness of the time. Spring to summer to autumn to winter. Each parades through and delivers with it the landscape only that season can own and claim. 

Life is the same way. You travel through seasons of infancy, childhood, adolescence, young adult, middle age and elderly. Sometimes you notice the subtle announcements on the next page turning, while others arrive unannounced. Often catch up in busyness and daily activities you miss the wonder of it all until it's gone. "Ah, the good old days.", you lament. "If only they could return". 

You tell yourself that you will pay closer attention, be less distracted and more mindful. Least you miss a precious moment, life milestone or loved ones cherished heart. Still, time passes and you are catch off guard by the calendar's announcement of reality. How in the world did you miss the signs? What have you been so focused on that you didn't even stop to embrace and relish the moment? 

Scripture warns you to be alert and aware. You are told not to slumber and lose focus. Jesus is returning and no one except the Father knows that day or hour. Yes, there will be signs but His return will be unannounced. It will be like a flash of lightening across the sky. Will you be ready or catch off guard? Will He find you doing his work or off being distracted with the world? Ready or not, Jesus is coming! Let your heart be glad, ready and rejoice.

"Just as a man can prevent trouble from thieves by keeping watch for them, so you can avoid trouble by always being ready for my unannounced return." 

Matthew 24:43-44