In Scouting for Boys, Baden-Powell (1907) wrote that to BE PREPARED means “You are always in a STATE OF READINESS in mind and body to do your duty.” In our personal choice to be followers of Jesus Christ, who inspired “Every Word of God,” we do not know exactly when Jesus will return. So, we must live in a STATE OF READINESS every day. Jesus said, “WATCH therefore, and PRAY always that you may be counted WORTHY TO ESCAPE all these things that WILL come to pass, and to stand before the Son of Man.” (Luke 21:36) Here’s the main reason we must be ready, “…for the Son of Man is coming at an hour when you DO NOT THINK He will.” (Matt. 24:44)
This quote very well describes us today, “This generation has a rendezvous with destiny.” Our time today truly fulfills these words that Franklin Delano Roosevelt spoke at the beginning of the Great Depression and of World War II: A world-shaking crisis is inevitably building and will, in our very near future. It will radically change the appearance of what’s normal. “…the voice from the magnificent glory of God said, “This is my dearly loved Son, who brings me great joy.” We ourselves heard that voice from heaven when we were with Jesus on the holy mountain. Because of that experience, we have even greater confidence in the message proclaimed by the prophets. YOU MUST PAY CLOSE ATTENTION to what they wrote, for their words are like a lamp shining in a dark place—until the Day dawns, and Christ the Morning Star shines IN YOUR hearts.” (2 Peter 1:17-19)
-Bill Stockham