Therefore, with minds that are alert and fully sober, set your hope on the grace to be brought to you when Jesus Christ is revealed at his coming. (NIV)

What do you think of first when you hear the word sober?  Not drunk, right?  

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Well, the word used here means alert, free from distractions, and alert to the dangers of the world, the flesh, and the devil. Jesus wants us to be clear-headed and purposeful, both now and when He returns.

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Growing up with an alcoholic father wasn’t fun. We knew right away whether he was drunk or sober, in a funny mood or an angry mood. My mom wasn’t always great at diffusing him; sometimes she made it worse by reminding him he was late, dinner was cold, etc.

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If he was angry or agitated, we kept our distance so as not to set him off. One vivid memory I have is when something set him off at the dinner table, and he flipped it, food and glass flying everywhere. He promptly got up and went to bed. I remember saying how unfair it was that his wife and kids had to clean up a mess that we didn’t make. His actions were out of anger and our actions were out of obedience to our mother.

Jesus also cleaned up a mess that He didn’t make. Thank you, God!! Actions are important, as they show what’s in our hearts, but I’m so thankful that God’s grace is an undeserved gift and cannot be earned. There are other denominations and religions that focus on our good works and what we can do for God. The good news is that God did it all for us by sending His Son, Jesus. Of course, our actions are important, and we are to live sober, focused lives, but those things don’t get us to Heaven.

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What do your actions show? What do mine show? Am I a Jesus-follower in all situations, or am I apathetic to the things of God? I spent many years being apathetic, and it’s no way to live.

Dear Lord, may we be alert and aware of everything and everyone around us, especially in how we act. Help us to remember that people are watching. May they see Jesus in us.  I don’t want to be known for my apathy. Help me to care about the needs of others and do the next right thing before me. Use me, Lord. Thank you for your free gift of salvation. In the name of Jesus, Amen.