Some talk about the return of Christ as if they would like to see it happen now.
Not me. Even though I’m waiting and looking expectantly for his promised return I hope it’s not today.
I can understand those who hopefully say, “Maybe Today.” If all of their loved ones have made peace with God, and if they are looking realistically at a runaway world marked by immeasurable evil, suffering, oppression, abuse, and disease, then it makes sense to want Christ to intervene now rather than later (Rom 8:21-23).
But if we are deeply concerned about family, friends, or neighbors who have not yet accepted Jesus’ offer of forgiveness, and if we believe what the Bible says about a last days scenario of unparalleled suffering and judgment, then looking expectantly for Jesus’ return can have inexpressibly disturbing implications.
Seems to me that the Scriptures allow for mixed feelings.
The Apostle Peter acknowledges that any delay in the return of Christ gives those who have not yet accepted his offer of pardon and eternal life an opportunity to do so (2Peter 3:12-15).
The Apostle Paul had similar mixed feelings. He admitted that part of him longed to be with Christ (in this case, through death), and part of him wanted to stay to help others accept and grow in their faith (Phi 1:21-26).
A lot more could be said about the wonderful rescue and terrible judgments linked to Jesus’ return. But for now, that’s why I think praying, “your will be done on earth as it is in heaven,” and looking expectantly for the any moment return of Christ could mean affirming the wonder and good of the inevitable… while hoping it doesn’t happen today.
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