Everyone will See Him!
The Christian community, at least in my estimation, wastes too much energy on trying to determine the “time” of Jesus’ return and not near enough effort on two more crucial issues: 1) being prepared for the Lord’s return at any time, as well as, 2) seeing to it that more people are expecting Jesus’ return with excitement and anticipation. While interpreters argue the exact nuance of each major passage of Luke 21, our reading for today, one passage stands out with clarity to my heart!
//Inspiration: Luke 21:27
At that time they will see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory.
//Incarnation:
I must never waver in my commitment to reach more folks with Jesus’ grace and call to the Kingdom so they are ready for His return. In addition, my passion and excitement for His return must be shared with believers so they don’t fear this awesome day, but long to celebrate the glory of His presence. Every eye will see Him and acknowledge Jesus as Lord and bow their knee to honor God’s Son. But many will do it for the first time on that day, not out of joy, but out of fear, sorrow, and realization of His identity for the very first time. I want more to wait in joyous expectation knowing that the Lord’s return means the reunion of the people of God and the day of our home-going to be with the Father forever (1 Thessalonians 4:13-5:11; 1 John 3:1-3; Revelation 1:7).
//Invitation:
O Father, use me to help others discover the glorious day that awaits when Jesus comes to bring in glory those who belong to You. In Jesus’ name, I await this day and ask you to send Him soon! Amen.
Amen!!!! I agree. That is where the nursing home/senior’s residence is so vital (in my case). Most of these people do not know the Master and so I try to be gentle and teach them the importance of a personal relationship with Him. I tell them that the Church, as important as it is, is only a vehicle to help on the way. They need this relationship BUT I also recognize that it is Holy Spirit that does the work. All I have to do is pray for them and ‘open my mouth’ as I have opportunity. My heart’s cry this year is to ‘be better prepared’ and, when the relationship with them is good, them preach a specific salvation message, using John 3;16, the ‘Romans Road’ and a few others. Truly it is an awesome responsibility. Ministry is not something to be taken lightly. Be blessed in yours.
Andrea
1 Feb 08 at 9:18 pm