What to Do While You Wait
Revelation 22
Waiting with Purpose: The Christian's Hope in Christ's Return
In our fast-paced world, waiting can feel like an eternity. Whether it's standing in line at an amusement park or anticipating a loved one's return, time seems to stretch or compress based on our emotions and expectations. But have you ever considered how you're waiting for something far more significant – the return of Jesus Christ?
The book of Revelation, particularly its final chapter, offers a profound glimpse into this ultimate waiting game. It challenges us to examine our hearts and ask: How are we waiting for Jesus? Is our attitude one of eager anticipation – "I can't wait, come Lord Jesus!" – or are we secretly hoping He'll delay, thinking "Can it wait? I'm not ready yet."
This waiting isn't passive. It reveals what truly matters to us, shaping our thoughts, desires, and actions. The early church had a powerful word for this longing: "Maranatha," meaning both "Our Lord has come" and "Our Lord, come!" These early believers, scattered and persecuted, clung to the assurance that Jesus would return. They lived with their gaze fixed both on the past – Christ's death and resurrection – and on the future – His glorious return.
But why wait at all? Revelation 22 paints a breathtaking picture of what awaits us:
A crystal-clear river of life, offering eternal satisfaction unlike the world's dry wells
The throne of God and the Lamb, promising righteous and good rule
The tree of life, bearing constant fruit and leaves that heal the nations
Seeing God's face, experiencing perfect intimacy and joy
God's light dispelling all darkness, fear, and shame
Reigning with Christ forever, our dignity and purpose fully restored
These aren't mere wishful thinking, but trustworthy promises from God Himself. They stand in stark contrast to the temporary pleasures and broken systems of our current world.
Yet, a common question arises: It's been 2,000 years – why hasn't Jesus returned yet? The apostle Peter offers insight: "The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead, he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance" (2 Peter 3:9). God's apparent "delay" is an act of mercy, giving more time for people to turn to Him.
So, what should we do while we wait? Revelation 22 highlights two crucial actions: worship and witness.
Worship: In the face of overwhelming visions, even the apostle John fell down to worship an angel. But he was quickly redirected – "Worship God!" This serves as a powerful reminder that nothing, no matter how glorious, should distract us from worshipping God alone. Our waiting reveals what we truly worship. Consider the contrast between Moses, who fasted and prayed while waiting on Mount Sinai, and the Israelites below who fashioned a golden calf in their impatience.
Witness: We're called to live in light of Christ's return. This isn't about trying harder or earning favor, but about living out of the grace we've already received. Our lives should reflect the transforming power of Jesus, becoming a living testimony to His reign. As we wait, we're invited to "continue to do right" and to "continue to be holy" – not out of legalism, but as a joyful response to God's love.
The beauty of this waiting is that we're not alone in it. Jesus is with us through His Spirit, strengthening our faith and keeping our eyes fixed on Him. Every time we gather for worship, we're rehearsing this waiting, training our hearts to long for Christ's return.
Revelation ends with a beautiful invitation: "The Spirit and the bride say, 'Come!' And let the one who hears say, 'Come!' Let the one who is thirsty come; and let the one who wishes take the free gift of the water of life." (Revelation 22:17)
For Christians, this is a call to go deeper. Perhaps your faith feels weary, and you find yourself reaching for things that don't truly satisfy. Jesus invites you to drink deeply from the living water He offers – a spring of life that never runs dry.
For those who don't yet know Christ, this invitation is equally powerful. If you've been chasing success, relationships, or self-reliance only to find yourself spiritually parched, Jesus meets you right where you are. He offers living water that satisfies forever, promising that all who come to Him will not be turned away or left empty.
As we navigate life's challenges and distractions, let's cultivate hearts that cry out, "Amen! Come, Lord Jesus!" This attitude of eager waiting shapes how we face hardships, handle temptations, and love others. It keeps our focus on the eternal rather than the temporary.
Consider practical ways to nurture this perspective:
Regularly meditate on the promises of Revelation 22 and other Scripture passages about Christ's return.
Make worship a priority, both personally and in community, allowing it to reorient your heart towards God.
Look for opportunities to share your hope in Christ with others, letting your life be a witness to His transforming power.
When faced with difficulties, remind yourself of the perfect future that awaits in God's presence.
Practice gratitude for the "foretastes" of God's kingdom you experience now, seeing them as signposts pointing to what's to come.
Remember, our waiting isn't about how long we wait, but about how we wait and who we're waiting for. As we fix our eyes on Jesus, may our lives tell a story of joyful anticipation, drawing others to the living water that only He can provide.
So, how will you wait today? Will you join countless believers throughout history in saying, "Amen, come Lord Jesus"? Or will you continue searching for satisfaction in things that will ultimately leave you empty? The invitation to come to Jesus stands open – will you accept it?