Be Ye Also Ready

Matthew 24:44 — “Therefore be ye also ready: for in such an hour as ye think not the Son of man cometh.”

Jesus warned His disciples that His return would be unexpected. The call is simple yet searching: “Be ye also ready.” Readiness is not about predicting dates or scanning headlines but about living faithfully every day. Gratitude for Christ’s first coming should lead us to live in readiness for His second.

The unexpectedness of His return means that delay is dangerous. Many live with the assumption that they have time, but Jesus says it will be an hour we least expect. Gratitude humbles us to prepare now, not later. The one who lives ready will not be caught off guard.

Readiness involves more than outward activity; it is a heart posture. To be ready is to walk in holiness, to abide in Christ, and to be faithful in the tasks He has given us. Gratitude fuels readiness, for thankful hearts are devoted hearts.

For pastors, this call brings urgency to ministry. They labor faithfully because they know the Lord could return at any moment. For the flock, it means living each day with eternity in view. Gratitude reminds us that readiness is not a burden but a blessing.

The first advent caught many unprepared, but we must not repeat that mistake with the second. Gratitude for the manger should keep us awake for the clouds. To live ready is to live thankful, treasuring every day as a gift of grace.

As the year ends, let us recommit to readiness. Gratitude for yesterday and hope for tomorrow lead us to live faithfully today.