November 29, 2023: Like A Thief In The Night

 "For you yourselves are fully aware that the day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night." (1 Thessalonians 5:2, ESV)
 
What is so attractive about the night to a thief? First, thieves like the night because it is easier to hide. At night, they can often 'slip in and slip out' before anyone knows they have been there. Secondly, thieves like the night because, under the cover of darkness, they can surprise their victims. Third, thieves like darkness because it is harder to catch a thief after he has already struck.

So why does Paul tell the Thessalonians that the Day of the Lord will be like a thief in the night? God is not referring to Jesus as a thief who will come to steal from families. He is telling the church, "You need to be ready for the coming of the Lord!" The Lord will not announce His coming, so we have time to prepare for His arrival. He will show up like a thief, 'slip in and slip out' before anyone notices He has been there! Those who loved him the most will be gone! He will show up like a thief and surprise people unaware. And those who love Him will go with Him.  He will show up like a thief, 'slip in and slip out,' and be gone before anyone can do anything. Paul's point is that Jesus is coming back. Be ready, not getting ready, when He comes