AUGUST 24, Matthew 25:13

Philip felt his stomach turning. Today was the day of the spelling competition, and he was representing his class to compete against the best spellers in all the other classes of kids his age. “Mom,” he said frantically, “you know that book my teacher gave me to help me get ready for the competition? I’ve got to study it, and I cannot find it. Have you seen it?”

“No,” said Mom. “Where did you use it last?”

“Actually, I’ve hardly even looked at it,” admitted Philip. “It always seemed like there was plenty of time, but now all of a sudden, the day is here.” “Well,” said Mom, “I think you are a little late if you have not studied by now. It is…”

“Mommy!” Philip’s little sister Phoebe called from her room. “Can you help me with my shoes?”

“I’m sorry, Philip,” said Mom, “but I cannot help you search for the book right now. Maybe Dad can help you.”

Philip looked at his father, who was finishing a cup of coffee. “I have got to get to the office, so I do not have much time,” said Dad, “but let us give your room one quick check before I go.” As they headed for Philip’s room, Dad asked, “Do you remember what Pastor preached on last Sunday?”

“I already thought of that, Dad,” said Philip. “He talked about how awful it feels to be unprepared for something important.”

“Right,” said Dad, “and especially how dreadful it would be not to be ready when Jesus returns.” He looked through the books on a shelf in Philip’s room. “Well, I do not see the book you’re looking for, but take comfort in the fact that being unprepared for a spelling competition is not as important as standing unprepared before God on Judgment Day,” added Dad.

“Yeah. I am sure that even the funny feeling I have in my stomach over the spelling competition can’t compare to that,” Philip said. “I guess a lot of people think they have plenty of time to get ready to stand before God, don’t they?”

“I am afraid so,” said Dad. “I am afraid many will wait until it is too late, and when they meet God face to face, they will be caught unprepared.”

Thought: Have you been unprepared for something important? Do not be unprepared for the Second Coming of Jesus!

Prayer: Heavenly Father, help me to be busy in service and witness for You while waiting for the Lord Jesus’ return. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.