Today we will be reading from Luke 21:29-38:

²⁹ Then he told them a parable: “Look at the fig tree and all the trees; ³⁰ as soon as they sprout leaves you can see for yourselves and know that summer is already near. ³¹ So also, when you see these things taking place, you know that the kingdom of God is near. ³² Truly I tell you, this generation will not pass away until all things have taken place. ³³ Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away.

³⁴ “Be on guard so that your hearts are not weighed down with dissipation and drunkenness and the worries of this life and that day does not catch you unexpectedly, ³⁵ like a trap. For it will come upon all who live on the face of the whole earth. ³⁶ Be alert at all times, praying that you may have the strength to escape all these things that will take place and to stand before the Son of Man.”

³⁷ Every day he was teaching in the temple, and at night he would go out and spend the night on the Mount of Olives, as it was called. ³⁸ And all the people would get up early in the morning to listen to him in the temple.

One of my old football coaches always told us to keep our head on a swivel.  In other words, when you are out there playing, always be aware. Watch, keep your head up, be alert.  You never know when someone is going to come out of nowhere and blindside you.  

We were playing Puckett when I was in, I guess, 11th grade. The mighty Bobcats of Bogue Chitto came into town, I’m guessing without a win, and Puckett was pretty good. They beat us pretty bad and toward the end of the game, I was running down to cover a punt. I wasn’t really paying attention, and this guy came out of nowhere and just cleaned my clock.  Only time I ever saw stars.  I wasn’t paying attention, and just like Coach said, I got it. 

Jesus is teaching about His return in these last few days.  He tells us no one knows.  There will be signs, there will be warnings, but no one knows, only the Father. So, be alert.  Keep your head on a swivel.  Always be looking, always be aware. 

Live your life today with intentionality. It may be the only day you have.  Tomorrow is not promised. Today is all you have, for sure. Honestly, this moment right now is all you have for sure.  Live with purpose. Don’t waste it.  

Be aware in this moment. I didn’t pay attention, and I got run over in Puckett.  

Don’t make the same mistake. Live with purpose today.  

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