Plenty of Time  (Read Mark 13:32-37)

"Come on in, guys," invited Larry. "My folks are gone, so we can do anything we want. They won't be home until five today."

"Party hearty!" the boys yelled, charging into the house. Larry searched through the cabinets for an assortment of munchies. As the boys sat around talking and laughing and eating, Larry turned the radio to a station his friends recommended and turned up the volume. Then he propped his feet on the coffee table.

"Lawrence Louis Brown!" Dad's voice boomed over the music. Larry jumped up, trembling. His parents weren't supposed to be home yet. "What is going on here?" Dad asked after turning off the radio. "You know your friends are not allowed in this house when we're away." Dad showed Larry's friends out the door. "You also know we don't pig out between meals," continued Dad. "And what's with the music? Start explaining, Son!"

Larry felt sick. "I...I...," he stammered. "I didn't think you'd be home until five." Dad sent Larry straight to his room without another word.

After Mom and Dad talked, they went to Larry's room. "Your mother and I have decided on your punishment for disobeying us," said Dad. Larry didn't dare ask what was going to happen. He didn't need to. His father went into full detail.

Dad looked sad as he finished. He saw Larry's Bible on the dresser, and he turned to Matthew 24:44-51. "What happened today reminds me that many people think they have plenty of time before Jesus returns," he said. "They think they can live in sin and do as they please, and then clean up their act just before Jesus comes. But Jesus will appear at an unexpected time, just like we did today." He held out Larry's Bible. "Read this," he said, "and think about it. What will you be doing when Jesus comes again?" N.E.K.

How about you? - When Jesus returns, what do you want him to find you doing? If you live for him each day, you won't be ashamed when he comes. Ask him to help you live a godly life.

Key: There's No Time for Sin

Memorize: "Therefore you also be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do no expect.." Matthew 24:44 NKJV 

This is out of the book "The One Year Book of Devotions for Kids"  BUY IT  Copyright @ 1993 Children's Bible Hour

Updated 10/1/00