In Luke 12:35-40 Jesus spoke another parable emphasizing the importance of preparedness, watchfulness, and activeness in the kingdom of heaven, as we await His return; the repetition of the theme again showing its necessity. Although He did not disclose the day or the hour, God does not want us to be unaware of the season of Jesus return so He gives us signs that would be occurring in the earth prior to that day, signs that are screaming louder than ever “the day is at hand” Romans 13:12. Jesus compares our readiness to someone in that day being prepared for action, perhaps a runner to run a race, picking up the bottom of their long robes and tucking them into their belt so as not to be impeded by them thus “Let your waist be girded…” This reminds me of a verse in Hebrews 12:1 that says in part“…let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us.” Note that it is not only things that are sinful, but also every weight, everything that would impede our being prepared, watchful, and involved in kingdom activities. 1 Corinthians 9:25 again compares us to runners in a race competing for a prize saying “Run in such a way that you may obtain it.” Keep your eyes on the finish line, on the race you are running, lest you become caught up in the surroundings and miss the goal! 2 Timothy 4:2 says “Preach the word! Be ready in season and out of season…” Remember sermons not only come from behind a pulpit, but in a daily lifestyle! “Let your waist be girded and your lamps burning; and you yourselves be like men who wait for their master…” Luke 12 35-36.
Run for the prize
By Rose Hill
Run, run with all your might,
Run, run for what is right.
Run to receive the prize,
On the finish line keep your eyes.
Scripture quotations are from the New King James Version copyright …1982 by Thomas Nelson Co. used by permission.