Mark 13:37
And what I say unto you I say unto all, Watch.
Our Lord issues here a command for all. This is no exaggeration on His part. As the Creator of all, Sustainer of all, and Lord of all, He has the authority to give such a command. One day, every knee will bow before Him, every tongue will confess Him, and the entire world will come under His absolute rule in every sense. Until that day, we—humanity—are called to watchfulness.
Sadly, many people have never heard this command. Even sadder still, some have never heard the name of Jesus. Others, though they know His name, do not know Him as Lord. It makes no difference whether you know He is returning—His coming will not be delayed. It also will not matter if you are unprepared for His return; He is coming, ready or not.
Many will have their eyes fixed elsewhere at His return—watching the stock market, tending to their own affairs, worshiping false gods, or perhaps even sleeping. How dreadful it will be for those who have never prepared for His coming! For them, His arrival will mean judgment. But for those who are looking for His appearing, He will come with redemption and life everlasting.
Whomever you are, watch for Jesus. Look to Him and expect His return. He will come in power and great glory to judge the world for its wickedness—both collectively and individually.
Sinner, watch for Jesus. Do not let Him return without making preparation. Turn to Him today: “Look unto me, and be ye saved, all the ends of the earth” (Isaiah 45:22).
Rich man, take your eyes off earthly treasures and set them on the treasures in heaven that will never fade. Focus on the life to come and begin laying up eternal riches.
Poor man, lift your eyes above your suffering and the fleeting escapes of this world. Look unto Jesus, hope in His return, and endure your poverty in the anticipation of the eternal riches He will bring to those who wait for Him.
Christian, watch for Jesus. Our eyes often wander to the things of this earth. We see others prospering in worldly goods while we struggle, and we may wonder why we seem less blessed. Look to Jesus and remember the spiritual blessings you have been given in Christ Jesus in heavenly places! Instead of fixating on your own affairs, watch after His. Go to the ends of the earth to make His command known to all people, as it was spoken to all people.
Oh, that all men would watch for Him! That the sinner would repent, the worldling would find hope, and the Christian would discover renewed energy for service in this vale of tears we are passing through.
This morning or evening, wherever you may be—are you watching? Are you anticipating the return of the Lord of lords and King of kings? Have you made arrangements for that day? What if it is this very hour? Oh, do not wait until tomorrow, for He will come in an hour we do not expect. Do not neglect this divine and universal command: “Watch.”
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