"Be sure of this: if the master of the house had known the hour when the thief was coming, he would not have let his house be broken into.
You also must be prepared,
for at an hour you do not expect, the Son of Man will come." // Luke 12:39-40
Have you ever had your home or car broken into? I've had a vehicle broken into twice. The first time I had borrowed my mom's car, and the second time involved a rental car I was driving for work. If I had known someone would break into the car, I would have taken my backpack with me or dropped off the luggage before getting dinner with a friend. If I had known, my friend would still have her diamond earrings, and my laptop would never have been taken.
No one expects their car to be broken into or a Home Alone scene to unfold in their house when they travel for Christmas. But if we didn't anticipate it, we would never pay for insurance. Insurance is saying to expect the unexpected!
Luke's Gospel for today encourages us to take out spiritual life insurance and "be prepared." Our souls have been broken into by the thief of all thieves, Satan. And the tragic part of it is that we have let him do it. Something far more valuable than diamonds or a laptop has been stolen from us. Our innocence, trust, and vulnerability have been taken. We have been traumatized by choices, relationships, and the unthinkable happening to us and around us.
When have you experienced a spiritual thief in your life? Where do you need to install some alarms to alert you when Satan attempts to break into your soul with temptation?
God has entrusted us with a priceless relationship with His Son, Jesus Christ, requiring us to bring to Him for healing what has been broken. So let Christ replace and mend with His healing mercy and grace what Satan has stolen and shattered. Allow Christ to heal the wounds caused by trauma, choices, and relationships. Permit Christ to reveal how Satan attempts to manipulate and deceive you.
We must be prepared, "for at an hour you do not expect, the Son of Man will come" (Luke 12:40).
Tricia Tembreull is a seasoned ministry professional dedicated to guiding young hearts toward spiritual growth, healing, and the love of Christ. With a background in youth and young adult ministry, Tricia has served in various roles, including as a youth minister, college campus ministry at USC Caruso Catholic Center, and Regional Director for Life Teen International. As a devotions writer for Blessed Is She, she shares scripture reflections that resonate deeply with women of faith. Recognized as a compelling Catholic speaker, Tricia challenges audiences to embrace their faith with authenticity. Additionally, as a spiritual director, she provides compassionate support to those seeking deeper connections with God. Currently serving as the Coordinator of Young Adult Ministry and Evangelization for the Diocese of Orange, Tricia continues to inspire young adults to embrace their faith journey with zeal and purpose, embodying a commitment to spreading the gospel while fostering communities of love.
Walk With Us this Advent
Get Your Prayerful Planner
