PREP SCHOOL

“You must be prepared in the same way.” –Matthew 24:44

Since we “cannot know the Day [Jesus] is coming” (Mt 24:42), we must prepare to be ready to meet Him today and “settle with” Him (Mt 24:51). The Corinthians showed their preparedness by waiting “for the revelation of our Lord Jesus Christ” (1 Cor 1:7). We must also be prepared for the possibility that He might come back in a short time, for example, in a year. This means we must spread the Word of God with urgency just as did St. Paul and the apostles (1 Cor 7:29, 31; Acts 6:4). The salvation of millions is riding on our preparedness.

We must also be prepared for the possibility that Jesus might not return in our lifetime. We must prepare to be faithful and diligent over the long haul, to persevere, suffer, and pray without losing heart (Lk 18:1). We must prepare ourselves, for we will be called to work “a full day in the scorching heat” (Mt 20:12), and then return day after day, year after year to work for Jesus. The solidity of the Church is riding on our constant preparedness.

Work faithfully until the Master returns, whether that is soon or far off (Mt 24:46). “Stay awake, therefore!” (Mt 24:42) Prepare to be prepared.

PRAYER: Lord God, You have generously given me so much revelation and warning. May I lovingly spend my life preparing Your way in the wilderness of this world (Mt 3:3).

PROMISE: “May the Lord increase you and make you overflow with love for one another and for all.” –1 Thes 3:12

PRAISE: St. Monica worked at her son’s conversion by suffering, visiting, introducing him to good Christians, and “praying always and not losing heart” (Lk 18:1).