A Night Watchman is not my job, but my calling. The ancient
Jews divided time into the evening, midnight and morning (Psalm
90:4; Lamentations 2:19; Matthew 14:25). The Greco-Romans added a fourth
watch between midnight and morning (Mark 6:48, 13:35; Matthew 14:25). I stay
awake all through the night and early morning hours, keeping the midnight watch,
with our Lord who never sleeps (Psalm 119:148; 121:2-4). I keep
Him company as He watches over all those who are sleeping and working all over
the world.
A watchman guards flocks, fields, cities and homes. They
protect them from ambush by sounding the alarm when thieves, predators and
intruders try to disturb their peace. The Bible uses the word “watchman” to
describe someone who proclaims God’s Word. During my watch, I pray and I write
this blog to present the gospel of the Kingdom of God (Isaiah
62:6-11; Ezekiel 3:17). People may read these words and repent; but even if
they do not repent, I have delivered my soul (Ezekiel 3:18-19; 33:6).
As members of Christ’s Body, we are to tenderly watch out
for one another (Philippians 2:1-4; Mark 13:28-37; Ephesians 4:32). We are
devoted to each other, giving preference to one another in the way the Holy
Spirit leads us (Romans 12:10; James 1:27). We help everyone, but
especially those faithful to the Lord (Galatians 6:10; 1 Timothy 5:8). In
doing this, we fulfill the law of Christ and we actually lend to the Lord, who
gives back 100-fold (Galatians 6:2; Proverbs 19:17).
If we do not lend to the Lord, then when we have a need, no
one will notice (Proverbs 21:13). The idols erected by the flesh,
the world and the devil will soon come to their demise along with the people
who build or believe in them. King Jesus is about to take His throne. We look
forward to the return of the Lord more than the watchmen who waited with
yearning for the new day to dawn (Psalm 130:6). For
now, I pray and watch (1 Peter 4:7).
Prayer:
Father God, keep us from growing complacent in this day and
time, so that we forget to be watchful for the coming of the Lord Jesus Christ.
Help us to be vigilant when people need help during these end times, which are
wrought with turbulent circumstances. Give us a word and resources for them in
their time of need (Isaiah 50:4; Isaiah 62:6). We look forward to the
dawn of the new day when King Jesus takes His throne. Cause people to hear Your
Word through Your watchmen (Hebrews 13:7).
Thought for the Day:
How far gone is the night? When will morning come? - Isaiah 21:11