He is Coming Back

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Scripture: Mark 13:24-27 (ESV)

24 “But in those days, after that tribulation, the sun will be darkened, and the moon will not give its light, 25 and the stars will be falling from heaven, and the powers in the heavens will be shaken. 26 And then they will see the Son of Man coming in clouds with great power and glory. 27 And then he will send out the angels and gather his elect from the four winds, from the ends of the earth to the ends of heaven.

Devotion:

            As we are waiting for Jesus' incarnation at Christmas time, we should also look forward to Jesus return at the end of the age. The two are related in scripture. First, these two events though they never occur side by side in the scripture nevertheless both involve waiting for God to act in the future.

            The shepherds to whom the angels of the Lord appeared on that first Christmas, though they were not specifically waiting for the incarnation they were waiting like all good Jews for the coming of the Messiah. In the same way, since Jesus ascended into heaven, people have been waiting passively for the return of the Lord described in these verses.

            Many remained unchanged by Jesus first appearance on the earthly scene. His second coming will be different. Accompanied by all the great signs in heaven Jesus will come again in a way that no one can possibly miss. Those who look forward to his coming will rejoice. Those who do not look forward to his return will be terrified.

            Which kind of person will we be at Jesus’ return? The choice is ours today. Let us prepare for Jesus coming during this season of advent. We must not wait to begin our relationship with him. While we may not be able to predict the exact hour or day of his return, we know that Jesus will return. And his return is now one day closer than it was yesterday. Let us pray that we will be ready for his return.

Prayer:

            Lord, we want to prepare our hearts for Jesus return right now. Lead us to repent of our sins and believe that Jesus is our Lord and Savior. Break up the soil of our hearts hardened by living in this modern world. Make them ready and willing to be obedient to your will. Help us to share our love for you with our neighbors and friends so that all will be ready for your return. Amen.

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