As this new year dawns, let us reflect on Christ’s promised return. Promises kept, build trust and security. “God is not a man that He should lie.” Time and again, God kept His word and as promised, sent His Son Jesus to be the sacrifice for our sin. These foundational truths enable His children to rest in the promise, “I am coming!” He is coming unexpectedly. He is coming quickly. Stay alert!
Unexpectedly
First, His return will come unexpectedly. Jesus used the illustration of a thief who enters while others sleep. He also compared it to the days of Noah, when the people lived daily, oblivious even as they watched Noah toil on the ark.
Quickly
Second, His coming will come hastily. Jesus said that as the lightning strikes across the skies, so will His coming be. He also said that two would be at work in the fields and one would be taken. Paul says, “We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye.”
Stay Alert
Finally, stay alert! Peter says, “What manner of persons ought you to be in holy conduct and godliness looking for and hastening the coming of the day of God?” Keep the lanterns burning, by living in the presence of the Living God so that day will not find you unaware. This promise, like a glowing piece of coal straight from the Father’s heart is alive and burning. Keep it so in your soul.