"He who testifies to these things says, 'Yes, I am coming soon.' Amen. Come soon, Lord Jesus." Revelation 22:20, NIV.
The first part of the Bible verse above are the words of Jesus, the last part is the apostle's response.
AFFIRMATION
This verse has several affirmative words, "Testifies, yes and amen." The combined tone of these words is to say this is for certain, agreed upon, and wanted. That "yes" is like Jesus is saying, "This is set in stone and can't change, it will happen- I am coming soon."
AMEN
The Apostle John responds to the promise of Jesus return with "Amen, come soon..." It like a prayer, and he says it with hope. This was the same Apostle John who walked with Jesus and rested his head on Jesus' bosom at the last supper; he loved Jesus and longed for his return.
Can we say, "Amen, come soon Lord Jesus?" It appears today we are not as passionate about the Lord's return as the Apostle. Jesus's return is one of our faith's great hopes, but we are too caught up in this world to want to serve the next one. We must acknowledge the Bible teaches as fact that Jesus is coming soon, maybe today. We are caught up too much with family, job, hobbies, and amusements, to give his return the proper place in our hearts. What would life be like if we did?
* Would we treat people differently?
* Would we spend time different?
* Would we work more for Jesus and less for self?
* Would our thoughts be about self or about Jesus and his Glory?
* Would we be more forgiving and compassionate?
* Would we see slights and offenses as trivial?
* Would we find purpose in trials?
LORD
He is coming not as the lowly carpenter but to be Lord of everything. Scripture pictures his return with a sword, not a shepherd's crook. He is the righteous and divinely appointed ruler who alone is worthy to rule mankind. He will take away the sorrows of this world and bring peace, love, and joy.
Jesus' coming does not only affect us but it changes everything for everyone we love. For some who love Jesus, his coming will be wondrous, but for those who have not trusted him as Savior they will be far from hope.
He is coming soon. May we be challenged and encouraged by this hope.
If you are not ready for Jesus, or if you want to learn more about coming to Jesus follow this link to my other post: click here.
© Adron 1/16/13
