As drivers approach Woodland Park, Colorado, from the west, there is a warning light that is activated and says, “Be Prepared to Stop” if the traffic light ahead is red. Because of a hill and a curve, drivers cannot see the upcoming traffic light so this is an important notification.

As we passed this warning light on the way to town today, I thought about other ways we are reminded to be prepared. During this pandemic, we are reminded to bring our mask and wear it while in public. Throughout the winter months, here in the mountains, we are reminded to check the weather report before traveling. Our wonderful LWML president at Faith Lutheran, Woodland Park, reminds us to bring our Bible and mite offerings to our local Bible study gatherings.

Every day I prepare in many ways. As I leave home to buy groceries, I put a cooler in the car (for the 30-minute ride home). I check to make sure I have my sunglasses and my grocery list. I prepare when I have an LWML event. I plan my wardrobe, print my agenda and any travel documents I need, and I make sure I have my laptop and phone chargers packed. When I prepare
a meal, I plan it out so everything is ready at the same time.

How do I prepare for the day I leave this world and meet Jesus face-to-face? I think I do this by living for Christ each day. Paul, in Philippians, stated his desire to leave this world and be with Christ, but he knew his time on earth produced fruitful labor to the glory of God. He said, For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain (Philippians 1:21). I pray that this would be my heart’s desire also but, I must confess, I am very often not that noble.

I do find comfort and strength in God’s Word. I find understanding and direction when I go to the Lord in prayer. If I live each day to Christ’s glory, I believe I am prepared and eager to meet Jesus face-to-face. In Luther’s Morning Prayer, I pray that God keep me from sin and evil so my
very life and all that I do may please Him. I remember when I first realized that when I spoke those words, I was literally giving my life and day to God and to His glory.

As sisters and brothers in Christ, let’s continue to encourage one another, holding each other accountable as Christians. The busier our lives, the more time we need to spend in prayer and in the Word. When we look forward to an upcoming event, we prepare with pleasure. Can any event be more important than our eternal life? I am ready and eager to meet this day, whatever my Lord has planned.

Today, and always, we are surrounded by HIS grace,
Debbie

Luther’s Morning Prayer

I thank You, my heavenly Father, through Jesus Christ, Your dear Son, that You have kept me this night from all harm and danger; and I pray that You would keep me this day also from sin and every evil, that all my doings and life may please You. For into Your hands I commend myself, my body and soul, and all things. Let Your holy angel be with me, that the evil foe may
have no power over me. Amen.