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"He who testifies to these things says, 'Surely I am coming soon.' Amen. Come, Lord Jesus!" (Revelation 22:20).
Think about how our lives change as we plan for a trip or vacation. As the trip approaches, there is likely a shift in our households. We might begin by preparing a budget, planning the logistics, packing, and perhaps even spending nights online researching places to go and things to do — building excitement for what is to come. When we arrive at our destination, the anticipation often drives us to do as much as possible at first because we have been waiting for so long. It is a good kind of anxiety — a joyful expectation of something great.
As Christians, we are called to live in great expectation of Jesus’ return. It should shape how we focus, speak, live, plan, and prepare. Do we thoroughly comprehend the depth and importance when we exclaim this appeal, "Come, Lord Jesus"? Are we actively and obediently doing our part before His return? Do we show and share the love of our Father, and the hope we have in Jesus with those around us so that they have the same opportunity we do as believers?
In Scripture, watching is not passive, idle waiting, or date-setting; rather, it is to be an active part of our faith by staying spiritually alert and faithful to God's Word. Not only has Jesus promised to return, but He also commands and calls us to be alert, pray for it, watch for it, be ready, and live in anticipation of His return (Matt. 24:42, Mark 13:33, Luke 21:36, Matt. 6:10).
In the active waiting, may we discern what God is calling us to do. Age and circumstances do not matter for such an eternal perspective — start now. We must remember our identity in Jesus, coming to Him, and becoming who we were created to be: disciples equipped and able to go into the world and call others to find their identity, purpose, and glory in Him.
Who do we yearn to see follow Jesus? Who do we pray will follow Him? To whom do we demonstrate the love of Jesus? May we be driven by the Spirit and have a strong sense of urgency to share the Gospel. We shall first extend to our neighbor Jesus’ invitation, "Come, follow Me" so that we together can proclaim, "Come, Lord Jesus!"
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