A Warning to the Watchmen

A Warning to the Watchmen

This is what the Sovereign Lord says:

Stand your post!

My watchmen are immature. They are far too easily distracted when they hear a shout. They turn to look. They shift their gaze from the land they are responsible for. They stop watching and begin to gossip.

My Watchmen are immature. They shout out as soon as they see a messenger approach but they are not trained to recognise the way the messenger runs. They cannot tell if it is an ally or an enemy and they do not take the time to check.

My watchmen are immature. They cannot even distinguish between the dust raised by a herd of cattle or an army of horses. They cry out an alarm over something that is actually bringing provision and they ignore a threat, mistaking it for opportunity.

My watchmen are immature. They get startled by rabbits and cry out over shadows. Rumours of war reach their ears and they run for cover. They leave their posts and bring fear to everyone they speak to.

My watchmen are immature. They are competing with one another instead of being faithful to their posts. They call the warriors to themselves. They wear fancy clothes as if they are the kind and tell the people to trust in them. They are turning the people’s hearts from the true king and they have turned their backs on the enemy.

And so my warriors are immature. They do not train for war. They do not strengthen one another. They are distracted and concerned by many cares that do not matter. They hide behind the walls and do not come to each other’s aid.

My watchmen are immature. My warriors are immature. They play at building, constructing pretend fortresses and think they are brave. They play at strategy, making plans for battles they never intend to fight and think they are wise. They shout to one another, fighting mock battles in safe places and think they are strong.

When battle comes to your gate, my people, will you be able to stand?

Stand your posts, watchmen! Call out the true warnings and stand your post without wavering.

Keep your eyes fixed on the territory I have given you. Know the land before you, study it carefully and watch for any changes.

Stand your posts, watchmen. Train your eyes to see clearly. Do not jump at shadows or get distracted. Stand your post and when you see danger make your voice loud and clear.

Come on, watchmen, it is time to be mature. My warriors need clarity. They need to know what is coming against them. Be mature and stand your posts!