TODAY IS…

a wonderful day to implement a “Neighborhood Watch” Program.

“But be sure of this, that if the head of the house had known at what time of the night the thief was coming, he would have been on the alert and would not have allowed his house to be broken into.”  Matthew 24:43 NASB

We have all seen the signs that have the names of different security companies on them which are posted in peoples’ yards. The homes that have these signs have been equipped with security systems that protect the people inside from harm while home, and protect the home and its contents while the occupants are away. The sign lets those who would cause harm to come to the home or its occupants know that they are prepared. This type of protection requires a commitment to the security company as well as regular payments.

People in neighborhoods throughout the country also get together to form “Neighborhood Watch” programs. Signs are posted letting would-be intruders know that the people in this particular area watch out for one another. While no payments are required, people make a commitment to watch out for each other.

As Jesus pointed out on the Mount of Olives, if a homeowner knew when an intruder was going to come, it would be a simple matter to sit there and be ready for them. Unfortunately those types of incidents are never announced in advance, so the homeowner must be ready at all times.

Christ was using the homeowner protecting his home as an example to impress upon people the fact that we would all face judgment one day.

“But of that day and hour no one knows not even the angels of heaven, nor the Son, but the Father alone.” (Matthew 24:36 NASB).

In other words, live your life in a manner in which you are ready to stand before God at any time.

One way to help ourselves be prepared is to reach out and help others be prepared as well. It is good advice to follow Paul’s admonishment to Timothy when he wrote, “In the presence of God and of Christ Jesus, who will judge the living and the dead, and in view of His appearing and His kingdom, I give you this charge: Preach the Word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke, and encourage – with great patience and careful instruction.” (2 Timothy 4:1-2 NIV).

In other words, it is not enough to be prepared yourself – help your neighbor prepare as well.

Consider it a “Neighborhood Watch” Program for your soul and that of your neighbor.

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Taken from “TODAY IS….A Gift From God”, (C) 2013 Tony Casson