Hebrews 9:28
So Christ was once offered to bear the sins of many; and
unto them that look for him shall he appear the second time without sin unto
salvation.
The book of Revelation ends with a thrilling promise: "He which testifies these things says, ‘Surely I come quickly'". And the Church passionately responds, “Amen. Even so, come, Lord Jesus." (Revelation 22:20). This ongoing dialogue between Jesus and His bride is the heartbeat that sustains our Christian walk. It reminds us of our ultimate hope beyond the here and now - the glorious return of our Messiah.
Much like the five wise virgins in the parable found in
Matthew 25:1-13, we must keep our lamps burning with faith and expectation.
While we wait, we should not be passive. Instead, we are called to be active in
our faith, shining His light for others to see and follow. Never should we
allow our lamps to run out of oil, nor let our zeal for the Kingdom cool, but
we are to wait with hope, and actively take part in the life and growth of
God’s kingdom.
Our joyful anticipation is not about escaping this world;
rather, it is about helping to bring the Kingdom here on Earth. God encourages
us to live each day as if Jesus might knock on our doors, ensuring that our
lives reflect the glory and grace of our Lord. This does not mean we can
predict when Jesus will return, but we trust in His promise that He will.
In Paul’s letter to the Thessalonians, he writes, “For
the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of an
archangel, and with the trump of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first”
(1 Thessalonians 4:16). This promise fills our hearts with anticipation and a
longing for that glorious day.
During our wait, we should remember that each day brings us
closer to this wonderful reunion. Jesus' promise to return offers us an anchor
for our souls, a firm and secure hope. We can find comfort knowing that our
present trials are temporary and that Jesus will wipe away every tear from our
eyes (Revelation 21:4).
We must not grow weary, dear friends. God is faithful and
His promises are true. Just as surely as the sun will rise tomorrow, Jesus will
return for His people. Our mission today is to live in readiness, with hearts
full of expectation and hope. Let us encourage each other in love, being
beacons in the world, demonstrating the life-changing power of the gospel. Let
today be filled with joyous anticipation, as we look forward to the glorious
return of Jesus Christ, our King.
I pray we remain steadfast, immovable, always abounding in
the work of the Lord, knowing that our toil in the Lord is not in vain (1
Corinthians 15:58). Know that you are loved, and remember... Jesus is coming soon.
May the Grace of Jesus, the love of God and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit
be our comfort as we wait and work in His vineyard.