Watch!

Background Scripture: Mark 13; 1 Thessalonians 5
Lesson Scripture: Mark 13:32-37; 1 Thessalonians 5:2, 4-8

Introduction

One of the key attributes of a good watchman is a mind that is keen and alert to detail. The successful watchman or porter will not count his life precious but will, in the dark of night or in the blazing heat of the day, be ready to deter any marauder by engaging them in combat.

The watchman wears sobriety like armor while wielding the sword of the Spirit; the breastplate will be comprised of love and faith; the helmet of salvation clearly illustrates hope, protecting his senses; and the feet are shod with a readiness to go and share the gospel of peace and salvation.

We are to be alert to the condition of our souls and those entrusted to our keeping because the Master is returning and will ask how we have done.

Key Verse

Watchman, what of the night? Watchman, what of the night? (Isa. 21:11).

Lesson Scripture

Studying the Lesson

In Mark 13, Jesus stated that the temple would be demolished. This majestic building would not have one stone left upon another. The disciples did not question Jesus’s words but privately asked Him, “When shall these things be?” Jesus answered in verse 5, “Take heed lest any man deceive you.” In verse 7 He says, “And when ye shall hear of wars and rumours of wars, be ye not troubled.” In verse 9, He says, “But take heed to yourselves,” meaning that we ought to give earnest attention and great carefulness to the things which we have seen, heard, and known. This will help us in times of great need. We will not need to worry about what we will say when brought before any authorities, but we will be able to depend on the Holy Spirit’s gentle promptings for answers.

“But take ye heed: behold I have foretold you all things” (Mark 13:23). These are valuable reminders that watchfulness to detail is necessary to successfully overcome the encroaching evil world. By paying attention to these warnings, we will be much more prepared for the judgment. We can then focus clearly on that important event often overlooked by the careless traveler on the road to eternity—the final day!

Jesus compares Himself to a man taking a journey, and this could be expanded upon as a further example relating to the household of faith. The man in this story left his house in an orderly fashion, and being of unlimited means, had adequately established his estate. He did not leave in a hurried, desperate rush; his departure was well planned and organized, and he made sure to properly equip his servants with good instructions. He knew his servants’ abilities, the capabilities they had of prudence and wisdom. He appointed a responsibility to each one, keeping in mind what each one could accomplish. Household harmony was also part of the responsibility given by a Master they adored.

The greatest attraction for any onlookers is the obvious peace and respect that this household operates on. They need to have constant vigilance to be ready because the return of their Master could be sudden and unannounced. Casualness does not deter them because of their single-minded diligence and enthusiastic service in their assigned duties.

The porter, or doorkeeper, commissioned by a caring Master, received an extra command: Watch! The constant reminders to be careful and responsible are not in vain. The servants humbly and joyfully accomplish their duties. The experiences related among themselves regarding their daily challenges and victories are especially notable for the enthusiasm or courage they bring to each other. Personal encouragement is a bulwark against the evil tendencies they encounter. They often confer with each other about their needs, helping bear one another’s burdens. When one of the porters speaks and describes a danger that lurks around them, each one pays close attention.

Occasionally there is a statement issued about conditions and attitudes within the household. Everyone knows these warnings are not based on selfishness or ulterior motives. They are taken seriously by all as a special need to be on high alert: to guard, to eliminate, or thwart the threat through solemn prayer and supplication to God. What an awesome task each one has in guarding his soul and spirit within the household of faith!

Why did the Master not tell them the return date? At times they might ask themselves that question. They wonder, ponder, and pray about being ready for Him. They are aware at the same time of the wayfaring pilgrim who, passing by, needs refuge. A warm welcome is given to those needy souls who responded to the heavenly, still, small voice. The only requirement, they all know, is that everyone must abide by the same authority entrusted to each inhabitant by the Master. Household harmony and peace prevails when each one accomplishes his work, and this often requires time on their knees, singing praises, and lifting a fallen comrade. The duties, though many, are joyfully done by taking on the challenges they face with courage, and they often enlist the help of each other.

Practical Truths for Today

Is it possible to think about the end of time as we go about our daily routines? If we sincerely search for it, we can find sufficient time for daily introspection. We can have audible prayers and also frequent whispered prayer, silent sighing to God that allows room for Him in all aspects of life. The times when we are most distraught or troubled are often the times when we have the most serious, pleading, and thankful talks with our Master.

Spiritually, we must always be awake. There is no doubt that Satan is attempting to sneak up on us like a thief to bind us, rob us, and escape with our valuables.

With so many unpredictable events happening around us, many people wonder what will happen next, and many people have succumbed to dark forebodings. The allure of listening to the dark elements of our base humanity can creep into our hearts, causing a great preoccupation and disturbance to life in general. We must be very watchful, and carefully heed the enlightening chapter of Mark 13.

No matter where God leads us, we are occupying a place till He comes. Will our testimony ring true as war, tumults, and uncertainties rise around us? Calmness is a part of our trust in an Almighty Father, who will come without a moment’s notice. Opportunities abound to share the most important warnings of the truth of the coming final day. Along with that comes the revelation of the two destinies each one of us chooses: heaven or hell.

Picture a scene of a father relating to his children if he is leaving out of necessity but planning to return to get them. His concern and love for their welfare in his absence would supersede everything else. God wants us to be at rest in our souls, to carefully follow his instructions, and live in spiritual fellowship. He does not want anyone to live in fear but rather have a hope and an eager expectation for his return.

The Master is likened to Jesus, and his household (church) is likened to his bride. Someday soon the marriage between Christ and his beloved will take place. This is his ultimate goal. In order to be a part of this great union, our robes will need to be clean, washed by the blood of the Lamb.

Questions

1. How can we watch and still do our work?
2. Should we spend a lot of time studying about the end of time?
3. Will God give us what we need at the last minute if we have not adequately prepared beforehand?
4. Do we watch our brother or sister more than ourselves?

Source: COGICM Daily Bible Readings (Daily Bible Readings, PO Box 124, Glenn, CA 95943).