[Jesus said] “At that time people will see the Son of Man coming in clouds with great power and glory. . . But about that day or hour no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father. Be on guard! Be alert! You do not know when that time will come.”

Devotion based on Mark 13:26,32,33

In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

After Thanksgiving, people put lights on their homes, festive garlands around door frames, and Christmas trees and decorations in their living spaces. These are signs that tell us Christmas is coming! They tell us it’s time to celebrate Jesus’ coming to earth as a baby.

As we’ve already discussed in our devotions this week, Jesus has promised that he is coming again to gather all believers and all those who have died in faith to take them to heaven. Sadly, unbelievers and those who died in unbelief will be sent to hell.

God has given us some signs to know that judgment day is coming. Unlike the signs of Christmas, these things are not enjoyable—wars, famines, earthquakes, and false teachers. Can you see some of them happening in the world today? That means Jesus could come at any time. We don’t know when this day is coming or when our last day on earth will be. So now is the time to be ready for Jesus’ return.

How can we be ready for Jesus’ return? In today’s Bible reading, Jesus tells us to keep watch, be on guard, and be alert. That means we need to stay focused on our reward—heaven. Just like running a race requires you to keep your head up, eyes looking ahead, and focus on your end goal. Jesus wants you to do the same as you look forward to eternal life with him.

Don’t lose sight of what God has prepared for us—distracted by all the activities and busy schedules in your family! Stay focused with eyes on Jesus. That way, you can really see and enjoy the blessings he has given us. Here’s what helps keep you focused: hear and learn his Word, keep his promises in your heart, and pray for strength and perseverance as you wait.

Judgment day will be an event of great joy for believers. Mark tells us that Jesus will come with great power and glory. How magnificent that will be! What a comfort it will be to see our Savior face-to-face and be with him in heaven! We definitely want to be ready for that!

Dear Jesus, keep us ready for your return by keeping our eyes focused on our heavenly goal. Help us not to fear that day, but to look forward to it with joyful anticipation because we know our eternity is with you. Amen.

The questions below are to help families discuss this devotion. The questions are divided by age group as suggestions, but anyone could reflect on any of the questions as they desire.

Questions for Younger Children

Questions for Elementary Age Children

Questions for Middle School and Above