I confess. One of my favorite apps on my phone is the weather one.
Growing up in Central Texas with grandparents as farmers creates a lifelong weather addiction.
When at my grandparents’ house – The weather and Wheel of Fortune. Two nightly entrees followed by a 10 pm dessert of the weather again.
Just in case something changed in the last four hours.
My DarkSky app says we’re under a tornado watch. Routine in central and northwest Texas for this time of year.
Tornado watches differ from warnings. Warnings mean a tornado’s been sighted. Watches imply that all the ingredients for a fancy meal are on the counter but lack a chef to make it happen.
Jesus’ use of “watch” ramps up as His crucifixion approaches. Especially in Matthew’s Gospel.
He calls us to watch out for false messiahs (24.4) and to be on watch for His return (24.42, 43 & 25.13).
He invites the disciples to watch with Him as He prayed in Gethsemane (26.38). Lamented when they didn’t (26.40). Reminded them how easy it is to fall into temptation when you’re not watching (26.41).
Others watched. Judas watched for a chance to turn Jesus over to the authorities (26.16). The soldiers kept watch as He died (27.36). Just in case someone tried a last-minute rescue.
Many women watched His crucifixion from a distance (27.55). They had followed Him from the region of Galilee to care for Him. Which they would do once the body was removed from the cross.
Which watch fits?
We’ve all been Judas to one degree or another. Perhaps even a soldier. Simply biding time with no relationship in the One Who died for us.
Hopefully women who cared for Him. Definitely followers who fell asleep just when He needed us.
He’s past that. He’s moved us past that. Now He simply calls us to watch for His return.
To be ready for the banquet. All the ingredients are there.
The invitations are all out. One with your name on it.
Just waiting for the Master Chef to kick it off.