The Arrival!

As I am writing this I am so excited because my parents arrive tomorrow to spend a few days with us! In anticipation of their arrival I have found myself tidying up a bit more, preparing rooms, straightening pictures, making sure that I have their favorite snacks and beverages. I’m even going to get a haircut! Even though none of this is necessary I want everything to be just right and presentable to them. Thank God that they are planners and I will know exactly the day they arrive, so I can be ready and have everything in place.

As I reflect on the last few days and preparations for their visit, it has caused me to think. What if they hadn’t planned and just showed up unexpectedly? Would they find me presentable? Would they find my house in order? Would I be able to welcome them in without embarrassment or regret?

Matthew 24: 36 tells us, “But of that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of Heaven, but My Father only.” Jesus continues to speak about the fact that people will be going about their everyday lives and in a moment’s notice He will return. In fact, He says that He will come like a thief in the night.

I wonder if we knew exactly when Jesus was to return if we would prepare differently? Would we be eager for His arrival? It is my sincere hope and prayer that on that day when He does appear that you will be ready.

Larry Norman wrote a song “I Wish We’d All Been Ready”. It ends with a chilling phrase, “You’ve been left behind.”

“So you also must be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you do not expect him.” Matthew 24:44

Captain Jason Perdieu is corps officer of the Salvation Army of El Dorado.