“Look, I will come as unexpectedly as a thief! Blessed are all who are watching for Me, who keep their clothing ready so they will not have to walk around naked and ashamed.” Revelation 16:15 NLT

Fast, Clean, and Clothed

God warns us that we need to be prepared when He comes for us. He tells us that He will come unexpectedly as a thief. A thief may come in broad daylight whether we are at home or not; or he may come in the night while we are sleeping, we may or may not wake up, or he may come in and take our possessions—even our clothes.

We are endlessly hearing of the big earthquake that is going to hit California, stating that the whole state could fall into the Pacific Ocean—especially the Los Angeles area. We’ve been hearing this news for so many years that for those of us who grew up in southern California became accustomed to hearing it. In our day and age, we have access to so many electronic devices and the news channels are plentiful. We are able to hear news from all over the world.

Recently we were alerted from a few of the media sources that a certain someone predicted that southern California was going to be hit with a 9.8 earthquake on a certain day and at a certain time—the Big One. Many people experienced sudden fear, many went on with their lives as usual, and many thought they should be prepared with what they could do with emergency kits and supplies. Many were at peace knowing that there was nothing they could do and viewed the situation in faith as a closer privilege of being with Jesus in heaven.

If we knew that a thief was coming at a particular day or time, we would definitely be on guard and prepared. A thief doesn’t usually call and set an appointment for his arrival, but he knows the day and time.

“However, no one knows the day or hour when these things will happen, not even the angels in heaven or the Son himself. Only the Father knows. When the Son of Man returns, it will be like it was in Noah’s day. In those days before the flood, the people were enjoying banquets and parties and weddings right up to the time Noah entered his boat. People didn’t realize what was going to happen until the flood came and swept them all away. That is the way it will be when the Son of Man comes” (Matthew 24:36-39 NLT).

Are we ready for our Lord to come? Are we happy and clothed in wedding garments, ready for the ride, or will we find ourselves naked and ashamed?

Thank You, Lord, for this reminder, especially in our busy daily lives. May we be ever so ready for Your return. Hallelujah! In Jesus’ Name, Amen.