We Believe: Jesus Will Return

"For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of an archangel, and with the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first. Then we who are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And thus we shall always be with the Lord." - 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17 

Reflection

The return of Jesus Christ is a cornerstone of Christian faith. This passage from 1 Thessalonians provides a vivid and powerful image of that glorious day. The Lord's descent from heaven, accompanied by the voice of an archangel and the trumpet of God, signifies a moment of divine intervention and ultimate victory. The resurrection of the dead in Christ and the gathering of the living believers to meet the Lord in the air is a promise of eternal fellowship with Him. 

This promise brings hope and encouragement to believers, especially in times of trials and tribulations. Knowing that Jesus will return to gather His followers reassures us that our faith is not in vain. It reminds us that no matter how challenging our circumstances may be, there is a glorious future awaiting us. This future is not just an abstract concept but a tangible reality that will be fulfilled in God's perfect timing. 

The anticipation of Jesus' return also calls us to live with a sense of urgency and purpose. It challenges us to examine our lives and ensure that we are living in a way that honors God and reflects our faith in Him. This means being vigilant in our spiritual walk, staying connected to God through prayer and His Word, and being active in sharing the gospel with others. The knowledge that Jesus could return at any moment should inspire us to live each day with intentionality and devotion. 

Personal Application

Reflecting on the promise of Jesus' return, we are reminded of the importance of living a life that is pleasing to God. It is easy to get caught up in the busyness of life and lose sight of what truly matters. However, the assurance of Jesus' return helps me to realign my priorities and focus on what is eternal. I am encouraged to deepen my relationship with God, to seek His will in all that I do, and to be a light to those around me. 

As I wait for Jesus' return, I am also reminded of the importance of community. The promise of being caught up together with other believers to meet the Lord in the air highlights the significance of fellowship and unity within the body of Christ. I am challenged to invest in my relationships with fellow believers, to encourage and support one another, and to work together in advancing God's kingdom. 

Thought-Provoking Questions

1. How does the promise of Jesus' return impact your daily life and decisions? 
2. In what ways can you live with a greater sense of urgency and purpose in light of Jesus' return? 
3. How can you deepen your relationship with God and stay connected to Him as you wait for Jesus' return? 
4. What steps can you take to strengthen your relationships with fellow believers and foster a sense of community? 

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for the promise of Jesus' return. Help me to live each day with the hope and assurance that He will come again. Guide me in aligning my priorities with Your will and in living a life that honors You. Strengthen my relationship with You and with my fellow believers. May I be a light to those around me and share the hope of Jesus' return with others. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen. 

Written by Sarah Leasure