Remaining Vigilant

By Romina Chevren

“But about that day or hour no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father. As it was in the days of Noah, so it will be at the coming of the Son of Man. For in the days before the flood, people were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, up to the day Noah entered the ark; and they knew nothing about what would happen until the flood came and took them all away. That is how it will be at the coming of the Son of Man. Two men will be in the field; one will be taken and the other left. Two women will be grinding with a hand mill; one will be taken and the other left.”—Matthew 24:36–41 (NIV)

In today’s passage, Jesus provides a sobering reminder of the uncertainty surrounding His return. He stresses that not even the angels or the Son Himself know the exact day or hour of His coming. Instead, Jesus draws parallels to the days of Noah, where people lived obliviously until the flood came and swept them away.

Much like in Noah's time, life continues amidst unawareness and uncertainty. People carry on with their daily routines—eating, drinking, marrying—without considering the impending judgment. This serves as a reminder of the danger of spiritual apathy and the necessity for constant vigilance in our faith journey.

The imagery Jesus uses paints a vivid picture of the suddenness and unpredictability of His return. Two men working in a field, two women grinding grain—ordinary activities abruptly interrupted by the decisive moment of Christ's appearing. In an instant, one is taken while the other is left behind, highlighting the individual nature of the judgment and the importance of personal readiness.

As believers, we're called to live with anticipation and preparedness for Christ's return. We can't afford to be lulled into complacency by the cares and distractions of this world. Instead, we must stay vigilant, keeping our eyes fixed on Jesus and our hearts attuned to His leading.

This passage serves as a wake-up call for believers to assess their hearts and priorities. Are we living in a manner that reflects our belief in Christ's imminent return? Are we actively pursuing righteousness and holiness, or are we entangled in worldly pursuits? Are we sharing the hope of Christ with others, urging them to prepare for His coming?

Amid the uncertainty, we find assurance in the unchanging character of God. Though we may not know the exact timing of Christ's return, we can trust His faithfulness and sovereignty. We can take comfort in the promise that His presence is with us, guiding and sustaining us through every season of life.

Reflecting on this passage, I'm reminded of the heart of a child. Children possess an innate sense of wonder, trust, and readiness to embrace the unknown. Their simple faith is unencumbered by the worries and distractions of adulthood. Similarly, we're called to approach our relationship with God with humility, trust, and a readiness to receive His promises. Children are also quick to believe without fully understanding, and trusting in the guidance and care of their parents. Likewise, Jesus calls us to trust in His sovereignty and faithfulness, even when we cannot fully comprehend His plans or timing. Additionally, children demonstrate humility and innocence, reflecting the kingdom of God. This underscores the importance of cultivating a childlike faith—marked by humility, trust, and a willingness to forgive.

May our lives testify to the hope we have in Christ, shining brightly in a world that desperately needs the light of His love. Let's prioritize our spiritual readiness and embrace a childlike faith as we await the glorious return of our Savior.

Pause: Take a moment to pause and reflect on Jesus’ words, and consider the uncertainty surrounding His return and the importance of remaining vigilant in your faith. Reflect on any areas of your life where complacency or distraction may have crept in, hindering your readiness for Christ's coming.

Practice: Commit to living each day with anticipation and preparedness for Christ's return. Take practical steps to prioritize your relationship with God and align your life with His purposes. This may involve spending regular time in prayer and Scripture study, actively pursuing righteousness and holiness, and sharing the hope of Christ with others through your words and actions.

Pray: Heavenly Father, I come before You with a humble heart, acknowledging my need for Your guidance and strength. As I reflect on the words of this passage, I’m reminded of the importance of remaining vigilant in my faith and prepared for Jesus’ return. Help me to live each day with a sense of urgency, prioritizing Your kingdom above all else. Fill me with Your Holy Spirit, that I may be faithful and obedient in all You have called me to do. Grant me wisdom and discernment to recognize any areas of my life where complacency or distraction may have taken hold, and empower me to make the necessary changes to align my life with Your purposes. May my life be a testimony to Your love and grace, shining brightly in a world that needs Your truth. I pray this in Jesus' name. Amen.