A couple of things seem important to the author of the Bible's book of First Peter: One is prayer, and the other is love. In the two verses above he encourages his readers to be watchful and mindful. Why? Is it so the challenges of "the end of all things" may be well-met? Is it to be efficient in the use of one's personal resources? Is it for self-defense or for the defense of one's community?
All of these and many more positive outcomes may stem from alertness and sobriety, but prayer is the one reason listed by the author. He wants his readers to be prepared to pray.
He also encourages them to love one another deeply. Folks who live in community are bound to cross one another. Sooner or later, an unmindful word is spoken. A hasty, less-than-alert response is given or acted out. Forgiving love may cover those words, thoughts, and deeds. The author seems to say that love becomes more and more important as the end draws near.
So pray and love, reader.
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