Second Coming

Now concerning the times and the seasons, brothers, you have no need to have anything written to you. For you yourselves are fully aware that the day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night. While people are saying, “There is peace and security,” then sudden destruction will come upon them as labor pains come upon a pregnant woman, and they will not escape. But you are not in darkness, brothers, for that day to surprise you like a thief. For you are all children of light, children of the day. We are not of the night or of the darkness. So then let us not sleep, as others do, but let us keep awake and be sober. 1 Thessalonians 5:1-6

When? This is the standard question asked by my young children when we talk about our upcoming trip to Disney World. No joke, this has taken months of planning and saving to pull off. Now, an anticipation that hangs in the air, with the constant “when are we going” question popping up in conversation. Knowing that this trip was coming, our family has made many advance plans that sacrificed some time and money. But I’m confident, Lord willing, that when the day arrives, we will be prepared to enjoy it! If unprepared, this would not have been a great experience.

The Apostles knew Jesus first hand and understood that He would return. With that in mind, read the passage above again. What was important to Paul about Jesus’ second Advent should guide our thinking as well. Timing was not critical, but awareness is. Specifics about what His second coming entails are not necessary, but preparedness is. Don’t miss the vital point made by Paul: be both attentive and planned out in light of His advent.

DO THIS TODAY: Start thinking more about Jesus’ second Advent.