Those who first sound an alarm can be seen as an interruption to those who are asleep. Many will dismiss the alarm because they can perceive its sound as premature, ill-informed, or pure fantasy. This misinterpretation of reality will continue until the cause of the alarm makes its presence known. The dismissal can take the form of anger, shaming, or mocking denial.  The gift of discernment not practiced in times of peace will cause many to fall victim to the very thing they dismissed out of hand without first inquiring of the Lord. Discernment allows us to adjust, prepare and remain spiritually awake not yielding to spiritual slumber and made ready to engage an unfolding future with hope.