Matthew Chapter 24

How many times have you been caught unprepared? Maybe you forgot about a big assignment, didn’t set an alarm, or had company show up when your house was a disaster. That sinking feeling of “I should have been ready” is one we all know too well.

Matthew 24 is full of Jesus’ warnings about the end times and His return. He describes wars, disasters, deception, and tribulation. But what really stands out is His repeated call to be ready.

In verse 36, Jesus says, “But about that day or hour no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father.” He compares His coming to the days of Noah—when people were just living their lives, unaware that judgment was about to fall. They had plenty of warning, but they didn’t take it seriously. Then the flood came, and it was too late.

That’s a hard truth to swallow. Judgment is coming, and no one can avoid it. That thought alone can be overwhelming—standing before a holy God, knowing every thought, word, and action is laid bare. Have I done enough? Have I been good enough? If I’m honest, the answer is no.

But here’s the good news: salvation is available. God doesn’t want anyone to be caught off guard. That’s why Jesus warns us. That’s why He came—to take our judgment upon Himself so that we don’t have to face it alone. If we put our trust in Him, we don’t have to fear that day. Instead, we can wait with hope.

Jesus says in verse 44, “So you also must be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you do not expect him.” Being ready isn’t about being perfect. It’s about having a heart that belongs to Him. It’s about living every day in light of eternity—choosing faith over fear, obedience over distraction, and surrender over self-sufficiency.

So, here’s the question: Are you ready? Not just in a “Yeah, I go to church” kind of way, but in a deep, personal, “Jesus is my Lord and Savior” way. If you’re unsure, today is the day to settle it. He isn’t calling us to live in fear but to live in “faith”—secure in His grace, walking in His truth, and watching expectantly for His return.

Lord, help me to be ready. Not out of fear, but out of love for You. Thank You for making salvation available through Jesus. I surrender my life to You and trust in Your grace. Help me to live each day prepared and watching for Your return. Amen.