Jesus quoted a familiar proverb to his audience, “Where the body is, there the eagles will be gathered together.” Eagles, like vultures, are attracted to carrion. What’s the point of this analogy? The return of the Lord is certain, but the time is unknown. The Lord’s judgment comes swiftly and often unexpectedly. Jesus warns his listeners to be ready when the day comes.

What does Jesus mean when he says that one will be taken and another left? He is trying to say that intimacy with a godly person does not guarantee that one will enter heaven on judgment day. Some may try to pass off personal responsibility to someone else, but God judges each person individually according to how they have lived their life and responded to his grace. God’s judgment is good news for those who are ready to meet him. Their reward is God himself!

Lord Jesus Christ, you are our hope and our salvation. We pray never to lose sight of the goal of heaven. Please give us fresh joy and zeal to live each day for your kingdom. Amen.