“Therefore keep watch, because you do not know on what day your Lord will come” (Matthew 24:42).

I love my kids and all, but some days I can’t wait for them to go to bed. When I leave their room after saying prayers, it’s like walking into freedom. At last, some time to myself!

An article I read challenged me on that idea. It said you should say goodnight to your kids as if it is the last time they will ever see you.

After feeling convicted, I invited the challenge of reevaluating my priorities. I spent the next night lingering in their room after our prayers. I lay on the floor in the dark, letting them talk about anything on their minds. We had some great conversations, and we all ended up with the giggles.

I wish I could do that every night.

God doesn’t give us the exact day or hour when our Lord will come. In not telling us, he invites us to live as if every day is the last day. He invites us to pursue him and seek him, not in a last-moment effort to get our spiritual affairs in order but in a way that unleashes his power and love in everyday life. 

So maybe tonight after you lie down, linger with him a little longer. Picture his presence as you open up whatever is on your mind. It might not give you the giggles, but it will fill you with joy.