Eager Anticipation

I recently got the opportunity to speak about the second coming of Jesus. It’s interesting how the same statement, event, or thing can get two different responses from people. When someone says, “the police are coming” it can bring negative emotions to the person who is breaking the law. That same statement can bring positive emotions to the law abiding citizen. It all depends on our perspective.

The same is true when we talk or think about the return of Jesus. For those who know Jesus the thought of his return can and should fill us with hope, joy, and eager anticipation! It can fill those who don’t know Jesus with a sense of fear or uncertainty. For those who are ignorant about Jesus or his return, they may not feel anything. This should inspire us to tell people about Jesus and his return.

We all understand what it is like to eagerly anticipate something. One of our sons recently got the Nintendo Switch and he eagerly anticipated getting it for weeks! I eagerly anticipate the release of each new Star Wars movie. I’m always anticipating my next drink from Starbucks as well.

           Romans 8:18, 22-24a says, “I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us. We know that the whole creation has been groaning as in the pains of childbirth right up to the present time. Not only so, but we ourselves, who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly as we wait eagerly for our adoption to sonship, the redemption of our bodies. For in this hope we were saved.”

These verses remind us that the current struggles we face on this fallen earth are nothing

compared with the future that awaits those of us who know Jesus. One day we will be in his presence and we will be free from the sin and suffering of this life! This gives us hope in our difficult times here on this earth. Like a woman in labor groans, we groan as we look forward to getting new bodies that will be free from pain and sickness, and will not die!

In 1 Corinthians 15 we are given two encouragements because of the Return of Jesus and what it means for those who know and follow him. Verse 58 says, “Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain”. We are told to hang in there and be faithful. We may feel tired or discouraged but the hope of Jesus’ return can fill us with joy every day. Then we are told to give ourselves completely to serving Jesus right now. It is amazingly fulfilling when we serve God with the gifts he has given us! Let’s eagerly anticipate his return.