If you leave our Cavanese pup, Sammy, unattended long enough he will most certainly venture to the window in our sun porch. The kids have officially designated the spot as “Sammy’s Lookout.” We think it comes from a built-in watchdog instinct. If he sees or hears another creature such as another dog or passing squirrel, he’ll let us know with a bark disproportionately loud for his humble ten-pound frame.
The season of Advent reminds us to be on the lookout for our Lord. It is a time when we not only look back on what God has done in celebration of the precious Christ child, it is also a time of looking forward to Jesus’ next arrival, the Second Coming. He is coming back to finally free the captives and triumph over the powers of darkness. In Luke 21, Jesus described His return as one marked with signs and wonders, when we will “see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory” (v. 27, NIV). Although there will be immense joy when we behold our King riding on the clouds of heaven in glorious wonder, Jesus cautioned the disciples to be on the lookout:
Be careful, or your hearts will be weighed down with carousing, drunkenness and the anxieties of life, and that day will close on you suddenly like a trap. For it will come on all those who live on the face of the whole earth. Be always on the watch, and pray that you may be able to escape all that is about to happen, and that you may be able to stand before the Son of Man. (vv. 34–36)
Jesus’ words remind us to be vigilant and keep pressing on. The temptations and pressures of the world will vie for our heart’s affection. Although times of trial lie ahead, Jesus encourages us to stand guard, ever watchful with our hearts surrendered in prayer.
Lord, we long for Your return. Strengthen us in the day of trial. As you stood guard from the Mount of Olives looking over Jerusalem (v. 37), may we always build our lives on watchful prayer.
*An earlier version of this article was featured in the Church of the Messiah’s 2024 Advent Devotional Collection, https://www.facebook.com/churchofthemessiahchesapeake
Paul J. Palma 