Today’s scripture: Luke 12:35-40 (NRSV) (KJV) (The Message) What might God be saying to me?
My thoughts (David Squire):
Do you recall a poster/t-shirt design that was popular some years ago that said Jesus Is Coming. Look Busy!
I’ve often thought that the slogan really did sum up the message of this scripture — it’s just the “Extra-Snarky Revised Version” (ESRV). Jesus will be coming back, and if you’re not watching and waiting, there’ll be hell to pay. Literally, perhaps. But another thought came to me as I read this, a thought that’s more hopeful and less fearful.
I’ve written before about the times I’ve felt like I’ve been in the presence of Jesus. All of those times were when His followers — friends, partner, pastors — were doing God’s work, literally being Jesus to me at the time. I think God rarely (maybe never) directly intervenes in the workings of this world. Instead, God relies on us — those who are committed to following Christ and being Christ — to accomplish God’s will on earth.
I wonder if today’s scripture can be seen as encouraging — maybe even mandating — that behavior.
What if the Jesus I’m waiting for isn’t the second coming, Jesus returning in the clouds? What if, instead, it’s the Jesus I’m supposed to see in my fellow humans? What if it’s the Jesus in me that I’m supposed to be? I don’t think I see Jesus in others (or myself) nearly as often as I should. Sometimes I don’t even think to look.
Thought for the day: When am I expecting to see Jesus? Only in some far off, future event? Or every day, in every person and situation I encounter?
We encourage you to include a time of prayer with this reading. If you need a place to get started, consider the guidelines on the How to Pray page.