"while we wait for the blessed hope—the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ,"
An ordinary kitchen scene: ingredients carefully measured out, mixed together in a bowl, poured into a pan, and then placed in the oven. From the outside, it might look uneventful, perhaps even boring. But to those who know the sweet promise of what's to come, there is an excitement that fills the air. It's the anticipation of what's baking in the oven — a beautiful cake that will soon be enjoyed.
We're all waiting in this world. Waiting for dreams to come true, waiting for promises to be fulfilled, waiting for pain to subside. But most importantly, as followers of Christ, we are waiting for the ultimate promise — the return of Jesus Christ. Just as we wait for the cake to bake, knowing that it will indeed be worth it, we wait for the blessed hope of Christ's return. We trust in His promise, allowing the anticipation to fill our hearts with joy and our lives with purpose.
This hope isn't abstract or ambiguous. It's the hope of seeing our Savior, the one who paid the ultimate price for us, and it’s the hope of a life where tears, pain, and death are no more. The Greek word used for 'wait' in this context carries the idea of 'waiting with expectation.' We’re not just waiting aimlessly; we’re waiting with certainty and hope.
Every day we live on this earth is another day closer to the fulfillment of that promise. As we navigate through life's joys, trials, and mundaneness, let this hope inspire us. Let it push us to live a life that points others to this hope, helping them find the joy and assurance that comes with waiting for Christ's glorious appearance.
Reflective Questions
1. How does the blessed hope of Christ's return fill your life with anticipation and joy?
2. How can you inspire others with this blessed hope?
Morning Prayer
Lord Jesus, we wait in eager anticipation for Your return. We know that our ultimate hope lies not in the temporary things of this world, but in Your glorious appearance. Help us to live in a way that reflects this blessed hope to others. Amen.