Advent Devotional December 16, 2025

Scripture

Matthew 24:32-44

32 “From the fig tree learn its lesson: as soon as its branch becomes tender and puts forth its leaves, you know that summer is near. 33 So also, when you see all these things, you know that he is near, at the very gates. 34 Truly I tell you, this generation will not pass away until all these things have taken place. 35 Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away.

36 “But about that day and hour no one knows, neither the angels of heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father. 37 For as the days of Noah were, so will be the coming of the Son of Man. 38 For as in the days before the flood they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until the day Noah entered the ark, 39 and they knew nothing until the flood came and swept them all away, so, too, will be the coming of the Son of Man. 40 Then two will be in the field; one will be taken, and one will be left. 41 Two women will be grinding meal together; one will be taken, and one will be left. 42 Keep awake, therefore, for you do not know on what day your Lord is coming. 43 But understand this: if the owner of the house had known in what part of the night the thief was coming, he would have stayed awake and would not have let his house be broken into. 44 Therefore you also must be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect.

Devotion

The Rev. Dr. James Clements '25

As a young soldier, I observed some of my peers diligently studying manuals and meticulously preparing their uniforms to remain prepared for tests and inspections. In contrast, I often chose to rest or enjoy leisure activities rather than focus on readiness. When several of us were called for interviews for a leadership position, I found myself at a disadvantage—my uniform was less presentable, and I struggled to respond effectively to the interview questions. This experience underscored the importance of constant preparedness and prioritizing vigilance. Readiness and alertness proved valuable during my deployments in two combat zones.

In this passage, Jesus conveys principles of readiness for the coming of the Son of Man by using the parable of the fig tree and issuing a warning regarding His return. He employs a relatable analogy: just as one interprets seasonal changes through the fig tree’s appearance, so too should individuals discern the signs indicating the proximity of His return.

Given the current climate—a world marked by uncertainty and mounting social, civil, and global challenges—there is a tendency for individuals to become preoccupied with worldly matters at the expense of spiritual preparation. The parable highlights a profound mystery: even Christ does not know the exact moment of His return, yet the emphasis remains on maintaining unwavering spiritual vigilance. This narrative suggests that many may be caught unprepared when judgment arrives unexpectedly. Christ encourages His disciples to avoid complacency or distraction from daily routines, advocating instead for a life lived in anticipation and readiness, in acknowledgment of the certainty of His return. Ultimately, this allegory serves as a direct admonition to prepare and maintain a state of spiritual alertness.

Prayer

In the midst of ongoing distractions and challenges, we seek guidance to maintain our focus and remain vigilant in safeguarding our thoughts and emotions. We ask for continued clarity, spiritual awareness, and discernment in recognizing important signs and preparing for future developments. May our faith and concentration be strengthened, and may we be filled with positivity and purpose.

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