Daily Readings & Thought for July 24th. “… YOU KNOW NEITHER THE DAY NOR THE HOUR”
Today we first read the continuing success of Israel during the life (so far) of a faithful and dedicated David – and then the contrast – the dismal failure of the nations’ commitment to God in the time of Jeremiah.
This prophet appeals to the LORD to act “Though our iniquities testify against us, act, O LORD, for your name’s sake” [14 v.7]
But they have become so totally evil “therefore the LORD does not accept them; now he will remember their iniquity and punish their sins.” [v.10] An ominous example for our godless world today where the word ‘sin’ is not even used anymore!
Our 25th chapter in Matthew contains 2 very pointed and powerful parables – they are so applicable to today – for we are increasingly in awe of how very near is the time of the return of the Master and the time for giving an account as to how we have used our talents and kept our ‘lamps’ ready for the “cry, ‘Here is the bridegroom! Come out to meet him” [v.6].
As with all parables, the ‘punch line’ comes at the end – v.10,13 – “those who were ready went in with him to the marriage feast, and the door was shut … Watch therefore, for you know neither the day nor the hour.”
The second parable is about the use of the various ‘talents’ given to his servants while he is away – we are inclined to interpret these as – abilities – and, we might add, opportunities, to ‘work’ in various ways in our Master’s service.
May we all be among those to whom he will say, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant. You have been faithful over a little; I will set you over much. Enter into the joy of your master.’ [v.23]
May you and I have that wondrous – and everlasting – blessing – of “joy” – far beyond our present comprehension! Let us each motivate ourselves more than ever to be ready to “Come out to meet him” – for we “know neither the day nor the hour“ Yes, even the hour!