Wherefore gird up the loins of your mind, be sober, and hope to the end for the grace that is to be brought unto you at the revelation of Jesus Christ; — 1 Peter 1:13

The first time Jesus came, he came to show people who God was (John 1:18). As great, strong, and kind as he was on earth, he didn’t show everyone everything about who he is. Our hope depends on his coming back. This time, when he comes, it won’t be to show who God is, but to show who he is: the Lord who wins, the Rider on the white horse. All knees will bend. We will see him for who and what he really is: Immanuel, full of power and grace, who has won in every way. When we count on Jesus’ grace when he comes back, we can be sure that we are ready to serve our king right now. Today, we can follow his orders and give him praise.

 

Thought

The first time Jesus came, he came to show people who God was (John 1:18). As great, strong, and kind as he was on earth, he didn’t show everyone everything about who he is. Our hope depends on his coming back. This time, when he comes, it won’t be to show who God is, but to show who he is: the Lord who wins, the Rider on the white horse. All knees will bend. We will see him for who and what he really is: Immanuel, full of power and grace, who has won in every way. When we count on Jesus’ grace when he comes back, we can be sure that we are ready to serve our king right now. Today, we can follow his orders and give him praise.

 

Prayer

O All-Powerful God, I can’t wait for the day when I can see Jesus coming with powerful angels. Until then, keep my heart fixed on the glory that Jesus will give me on that day, and give me the strength to live like someone who knows that victory is theirs through Jesus. In Jesus’ precious name I pray. Amen.