Jesus comes back to us

Where are you going for Thanksgiving dinner? Some kids stay home with their families; others go to a grandparent's house, sometimes far away. If you do go away, it's fun to take the trip and see everyone; but after a while, you're ready to come home.

Jesus would understand how you feel about traveling on Thanksgiving. In this week's Gospel (Mark 13:33-37), He talks about taking trips -- and coming back.

"Watch out!" Jesus said. "You don't know when I'll come back. I'm like a man who leaves on a trip, puts his servants in charge and tells them to watch for his return. Watch, because you don't know if the master of this house will come at midnight or sunrise. If I come back suddenly, I must not find you asleep. Watch!"

Thanksgiving can be a fun time. You eat great food, spend time with your family and maybe even see cousins you hardly ever visit. You even watch parades or football on TV!

For Jesus, going back to heaven after He came to earth must have been fun. He got to be with His Father again and spend time with all His friends in heaven.

After Thanksgiving dinner is over, you might feel ready to go home. You ate too much, you're tired and you can't wait to sleep late the next day! Jesus probably feels like a kid after Thanksgiving. He's been back "home" in heaven for a while now; but any minute, He might be ready to come visit us again.

After a Thanksgiving trip, it feels good to see your pets and your friends. You hope no one is too busy to spend time with you, now that you can tell them about your Thanksgiving fun.

If you're excited after Thanksgiving, think of how excited Jesus will be to see us, when He comes back someday. In His story, He reminded us to get ready for Him. We don't know when we'll see Him. But whenever He comes back, He'll have a lot to tell us about His trip to heaven -- but only if we're paying attention!

PRAYER FOR THE WEEK: Jesus, help me remember on Thanksgiving all the good things you give me -- especially the gift of you! Amen.

(11-28-96)

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