“In the future there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day; and not only to me, but also to all who have loved His appearing” (2 Timothy 4:8 NASB).
“Yes, I am coming soon” (Revelation 22:20 NIV).
Years ago, when I learned my 34-year-old sister had developed breast cancer, I felt like someone had hit me over the head with a sledgehammer. A friend stopped by to visit, and I told him the shocking news and added, “I wish Christ would return now.”
“You’re not supposed to want Jesus to return to get out of your misery,” my friend said. “You should welcome His return because you love His appearing.”
His answer startled me, and I gave serious thought to why I wanted Christ to return. Was it because I loved His appearing, as it says in 2 Timothy 4:8? Perhaps not completely.
Another time a mature Christian said she daily prayed, “Come soon, Lord Jesus.” She seemed genuine in her desire to be with Jesus. I had young children then, so I was focused on raising a family, not on Christ’s return. Her words jogged me to realize Jesus could return any day.
Lately because of numerous crises around the world, I hear Christians say, “Come soon, Lord Jesus.” In fact, I’m saying it too. But do I say it with the right motives? Do I only want to escape the troubles of life? Or do I long to see Jesus face to face?
When I e-mailed these thoughts to a friend, she replied, “You are so right about yearning for the Lord’s return with the right motives: for no other reason than to take our place in eternity with Him. Jesus will come for His bride at God’s appointed time. Meanwhile, we are to occupy until He comes.”
She continued, “These are exciting times with many opportunities to strengthen our trust in God and to tell others about Christ’s love and salvation.”
We know Jesus is the only answer, and that He will return. Revelation 22:17 (NIV) says, “The Spirit and the bride say, ‘Come!’ And let him who hears say, ‘Come!’ Whoever is thirsty, let him come; and whoever wishes, let him take the free gift of the water of life.”
Although we live during uncertain times, we have a secure, rock-solid God. So we say, “Come soon, Lord Jesus.”
Lord Jesus, You have everything under control. And we know You will return for Your bride in Your perfect time. Help us to wait with eager anticipation because we long to see You face to face and be with You forever. Amen. Come, Lord Jesus.
About Lydia Harris
Lydia E. Harris is happily married to Milt, her sweetheart for 48 years. She has two married children, five grandkids, and is the author of a Bible study, "Preparing My Heart for Grandparenting" (AMG Publishers, 2010 release). She's also a tea enthusiast and writes the column "A Cup of Tea with Lydia."
