He who testifies to these things says, “Surely I am coming soon.” Amen. Come, Lord Jesus! (Revelation 22:20)

Come, Lord Jesus! This has been the cry of God’s people throughout the ages. As Christians, we see and feel so acutely the pain and sorrow of the world. We know our own suffering and we hear of those whose suffering is even greater. Every day we see all around us the evidences of a fallen world. We realize this world is not our home. And we cry out – Maranatha! Come, Lord Jesus! Take us to the place of eternal blessedness, shining in the glory of the Lord as we stand forever in the presence of Your holiness!

But another day passes, then another, then we begin to wonder if he really is coming soon. It was not soon enough to spare my friend her suffering with cancer. It was not soon enough to rescue the child dying of malnutrition. It was not soon enough to end the overwhelming flood of wickedness carried out by men today. But Christian, behold the tender words of our Lord: “I am coming soon, bringing my recompense with me, to repay everyone for what he has done.” (Revelation 21:12) He will undo the works of evil. He will restore his creation, setting straight what men had tried so hard to throw asunder.

Do not despair in the long days, when suffering seems unending and the wickedness of men seems to have no end. Rejoice in the promise of his coming. He is coming soon! The moment we stand in his presence all the suffering of this world will have been as nothing. We will say with Paul, “…this light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison…” (2 Corinthians 4:17)

While the Lord leaves us in this world, let us be sure we live for him. He has perfect, wise, and just reasons for his timing and he says to us, “Not yet, not yet – but keep living for me! I will repay, I will repay! Be faithful by the power that I give you and one day soon you will be with me.” Maranatha! Come, Lord Jesus!

Chris Roberts is the pastor of Immanuel Baptist Church in Panama City, FL and he blogs at Seek the Holy. He is married to Sandra and they have three kids.

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