Why is it important for Christians to be watchful and prepared for Christ's return?

In Matthew 24, Jesus emphasizes the importance of being watchful as a sign of our relationship with Him. Christians are called to live in expectation of His return, embodying a lifestyle that reflects this anticipation. This involves actively participating in our faith through worship, prayer, and service, knowing that we do not work to earn our salvation but rather because we have already been saved. Our preparation is a manifestation of our gratitude and vigilance, which assures us that we are living in alignment with His will, maintaining our focus on His righteousness. This watchfulness is not about date-setting but about being spiritually awake and active in our faith.