Your 24/7 Companion – Day 21
Expectation of His Return
Um(Imi)bhalo weBhayibheli
NgokukaJohane 14
Kwabase-Efesu 2
EkaJakobe 5
Almost every moment of our day revolves around planning, providing and surviving for the here and now. It goes on like this for the duration of our lives, which is temporary.
There is also another life parallel to the physical one on earth, namely, the life in the spiritual dimension. Yet, this is the life we spend the least time on (or nothing), despite the fact that it lasts for eternity. It is also the life that can make our stay on earth bearable, no, joyful! Why? Because God promised that in him we will be more that conquerors, that all things are possible because of his power working in us and that all things work for the good of those who love him. It is like dragging the heavens into our earthly existence!
This is the everlasting life Jesus spoke about when he said to his disciples, “I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you may also be where I am.” (John 14:2-3)
Our earthly residence is, consequently, that of strangers and foreigners, and not that of fellow citizens or permanent inhabitants. A permanent home was accomplished for us by Christ who, by the Spirit, gives us access to the Father, thus giving us the right to citizenship in the heavens, “Now therefore, you are no longer strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God.” (Ephesians 2:18-19)
Now, when do we enter this land of which we are now citizens? It will be on that day when Jesus returns to earth and takes us to be with him forever. Yes of course, we wish for time to pass quickly, but we are also encouraged to be patient and stand firm, because the Lord’s coming is near. (James 5:8)
The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance (2 Peter 3:9). In the meantime, you and I can live our lives; excitingly awaiting his return while enthusiastically doing the work he called us to do on earth.
Just make sure you are ready!
