‘They all became drowsy and fell asleep’  (Matthew 25:5)

When we think of the warning Jesus has given, the promises He has made, and the precepts He has delivered, we are ready to conclude that His people must be always active and always happy. But when we look around us, or when we look at our own course, we are obliged to lament that this is not the case.

Jesus is gone to receive a kingdom and to return; He has given talents to His servants, and to every person their work, and commanded the porter to watch. But it is said of the wise, as well as the foolish virgins, “They all slumbered and slept.”

Are we awake to our duties, to our privileges, to our expectations? Are we looking, longing, and preparing for the coming of Jesus? Are we sober and vigilant, because our adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, is going about seeking whom he may devour? Are we active for God? Are we hastening home? Do we pass the time of our pilgrimage here in fear? Is the talent in the napkin, or at the bank?

Let us not sleep as others might, but let us watch and be alert. Behold the Judge stands at the door. It is high time to awaken out of sleep.

He comes, He comes to call
The nations to His bar;
And take to glory all
Who meet for glory are:
Make ready for your full reward;
Go forth with joy to meet your Lord.

THE DAILY REMEMBRANCER by James Smith (1802-1862)

Journal Jottings

Resume in September