The Millennium
Revelation 22
The Coming Day: Believing the Creed and Living for Christ
In a world filled with uncertainty, one truth remains steadfast - there is a day coming when Christ will return. This profound reality should shape how we live, believe, and interact with the world around us. As we explore this concept, let's dive into the heart of what it means to believe the creed and live both in and for Jesus.
The Apostles' and Nicene Creeds, cornerstones of Christian faith, affirm the second coming of Christ. These ancient declarations remind us that Jesus "will come again in glory to judge the living and the dead, and his kingdom will have no end." This isn't a secret event or a quiet occurrence. The Bible describes it as a moment accompanied by a loud command, the voice of an archangel, and the trumpet call of God (1 Thessalonians 4:16).
But what does this mean for us today? How should the anticipation of Christ's return influence our daily lives?
First and foremost, it calls us to readiness. Jesus often spoke about his return, using parables to illustrate the importance of being prepared. The story of the ten virgins in Matthew 25 serves as a poignant reminder that not everyone will be ready when the bridegroom comes. Five were wise and prepared, while five were foolish and caught off guard. This parable urges us to live with spiritual vigilance, always ready for Christ's return.
However, this readiness isn't about fear or anxiety. Instead, it's rooted in hope and joyful anticipation. The early church's cry of "Come, Lord Jesus!" (Revelation 22:20) should echo in our hearts today. We're invited to long for His return, to thirst for His presence, and to freely partake in the grace He offers.
This anticipation of Christ's return also shapes our perspective on suffering and trials. In a world that often seeks to avoid discomfort at all costs, the Christian view acknowledges that suffering is part of our journey. Yet, we face it with hope, knowing that our present sufferings pale in comparison to the glory that will be revealed (Romans 8:18).
As we look forward to Christ's return, we're called to live in a way that reflects His character. This is where the concept of "cruciform Christianity" comes into play. It's a lifestyle that takes the shape of the cross, embodying self-denial, service, and sacrificial love. Jesus himself set this example, stating that He "did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many" (Mark 10:45).
This cruciform life is marked by the fruit of the Spirit: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23). It's a life that doesn't insist on its own way but is clothed in compassion, humility, and patience. This way of living stands in stark contrast to the self-centered, moralistic, or antagonistic approaches that sometimes characterize religious expression.
Consider the story of Augustine, one of the most influential Christian thinkers in history. What drew him to Christ wasn't just the powerful preaching of Ambrose, but the way Ambrose treated him with love. This love "staggered" Augustine, opening his heart to the biblical arguments that would eventually lead to his conversion. Our lives, filled with the unexplainable love of Christ, should similarly make non-believers question their disbelief in God.
This love-filled, cruciform life is meant to be lived out in community. The early church, as described in the book of Acts, was a beautiful tapestry of diversity - Greek and Hebrew speakers, Jews and Gentiles, people from various ethnic and cultural backgrounds. Yet, they were united in Christ, eating together and serving one another. This unity in diversity remains a powerful testimony to the world of the transformative power of the Gospel.
As we live in this way, we're not just passively waiting for Christ's return. We're actively participating in His kingdom work. Every act of love, every word of encouragement, every prayer offered in faith - these are not just good deeds, but eternal investments. They don't earn our salvation (which is by grace alone through faith), but they do have eternal significance. As one pastor beautifully put it, the prayers we offer and the love we show will "meet us in heaven."
So, how do we practically live out this cruciform life as we await Christ's return? Here are a few suggestions:
Cultivate a heart of anticipation: Regularly pray, "Come, Lord Jesus!" Let this prayer shape your priorities and perspective.
Embrace grace: Remember that salvation is a free gift. Drink deeply from the well of God's grace daily.
Live in community: Engage deeply with other believers, encouraging one another towards love and good deeds.
Serve others: Look for opportunities to wash feet, metaphorically speaking. How can you serve those around you in practical ways?
Share your story: Be ready to give an account for the hope that is in you, with gentleness and respect (1 Peter 3:15).
Love extravagantly: Let your life be marked by unexplainable love that makes others curious about your faith.
As we close, let's remember the words of Dietrich Bonhoeffer: "Your life as a Christian should make non-believers question their disbelief in God." May our lives, shaped by the anticipation of Christ's return and filled with His love, be a compelling witness to a watching world. As we navigate the complexities of our time, may we hold fast to the hope of His coming, living each day as if it could be the day when we hear that trumpet call and see our Savior face to face.
Come, Lord Jesus. Until then, may we live as those who belong to You, eagerly awaiting Your return and faithfully serving in Your name.