I Thessalonians 2:17-5:28; II Thessalonians 1:1-12
Do you get excited when you read what Paul says to the Thessalonians about Jesus’ Second Coming? I do! The shout of the archangel and a trumpet blast. Jesus himself appearing in the clouds. My parents, grandparents, my nephew and others who died knowing Christ as their Savior will come out of their graves! And we will all meet Jesus in the air, “and so we will be with the Lord forever.”
That’s why we who know Christ do not grieve like those who have no hope. We know that once this life is over, life is not over. Once this life is over the person who has accepted Jesus as Savior really begins to live.
I, for one, look forward to that day. And I think it would be incredible to still be walking this earth when it happens. Leaving the cares of this world behind would be a welcomed relief.
But I don’t pray for that day to happen soon. My prayer is that Christians will step up our game, that the Holy Spirit will find us willing and useful vessels through which he can continue to draw all men to God. Shame on us if we want to take the easy way out. Instead, we need to strap on the armor and get out there into the battle. There are still people who need the Savior and unless they accept him, they will go to hell.
Oh that our neighbors and friends shared the same hope we have.
Dear Jesus, we who know you look forward to the day when we will meet you in the air. We long for the moment when we can look into your eyes, when we can sing your praises face to face. But, Lord, we also know you are not willing that any of our neighbors and friends should perish without you. So I pray for your children today. May we do the work you’ve called us to. May your Holy Spirit empower us to be your voice to lost souls. Prepare hearts to meet you today. And may we be faithful to share the Good News of Jesus with them. Tarry, Lord. There are still people who need the Savior.