“Therefore keep watch, because you do not know the day or the hour.” — Matthew 25:13
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Athletic training facilities are equipped with the latest technology for studying film, enough space for skill sessions, and also have large locker rooms and showers. The equipment and the personnel are all valuable, and it’s important to think about safety, fire prevention and a sanitary environment. Smoke alarms and fire extinguishers are a necessity to ensure teams are protected from worst-case scenarios. Illnesses, staph infections, etc., can spread throughout teammates if showers and training rooms are not thoroughly cleaned. Coaches and athletes need to be prepared for anything.
When Jesus talked about the future, He urged everyone to understand that life after death is available for us when we make reservations for a better place above, after this life. Christ’s love pours out as He instructs us to think about what is ahead. In ancient times, oil lamps were used for light, and it was important to keep plenty of oil on hand so that people didn’t find themselves stumbling in the dark. Jesus used this familiar example to speak about giving attention to our spiritual lives.
“At that time the kingdom of heaven will be like 10 virgins who took their lamps and went out to meet the bridegroom. Five of them were foolish and five were wise. The foolish ones took their lamps but did not take any oil with them. The wise ones, however, took oil in jars along with their lamps” (Matthew 25:1-4). In this parable, Jesus demonstrated that some are prepared for eternity while others neglect their souls. At times, all of us let less important matters grab our attention, but we need to put God first on our priority lists.
As Jesus finished telling the spiritual lesson, He reminded us to always be ready for His return, because we don’t know when He will come back through the clouds. “Therefore keep watch, because you do not know the day or the hour” (Matthew 25:13).
How do we get ready for Christ’s return? We believe in Him, love Him and speak kindly to our family, friends and even strangers. Also, we treat others the way we want to be treated. The Lord will be pleased when we see Him face to face.
— Bill Kent, Pastor of Memorial Baptist Church, Sylvania, Georgia
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