One rather ordinary morning recently, I had a list of errands that I wanted to attend to. As I was crossing a downtown street, at the crosswalk and with the pedestrian light, I was suddenly and unexpectedly aware of a large black vehicle. It hit me, and I was knocked down. I was blessed to have complete strangers come to my assistance. Someone called 911. Before the ambulance arrived, I was further blessed as a Christian friend came, held my hand, and simply reminded me that the Lord was there with me. All fear left me.

But that was not the end of my blessings. My husband and son met me at the hospital. So I was surrounded by loved ones as well as the competent, friendly staff of the emergency room. After being thoroughly checked out and getting the results of a CT scan, I was released to go home — that same afternoon. Although nothing was broken, this late-sixtyish body was severely shaken, stiff, and sore. It could have been so much worse. But it wasn't! I have only one significant bruise attributable to the accident. I am truly blessed!

My hour hadn't come. Not then. It could have, though. Was I ready? Are we ever really and truly ready?

I experienced firsthand how quickly and unexpectedly something can happen. Jesus said, "You also must be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you do not expect him." (Luke 12:40 NIV) So, I need to be prepared — to make sure that all my affairs are in order — to live every day, every hour, every minute as if it were my last one — a very tall order!

Thankfully, I have help, the same help that was there and took away my fear, as I lay on the pavement holding my friend's hand. I have another Friend, Jesus, because I have accepted Him as my personal Lord and Saviour. I don't need to fear "my hour". While I'm not ready to die just yet, I am spiritually prepared to go whenever I am called. Are you?

Prayer: Thank You, Father God, for sending Your Son, Jesus, so that whosoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life. Thank You, Jesus, that You gave Your life on the cross to pay the penalty for our sins. We confess our sins and accept Your free gift of salvation. May we rest in the assurance of eternal life with You! Amen.