Do you live in anticipation for Jesus? return?

[snugsnug]

Do you live in anticipation for Jesus’ return?
by David Rosales

Dear Friend in Christ:

“Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will by no means pass away� Matthew 24:35

Do you live in anticipation for Jesus’ return?

During the “Jesus People� movement, the church was anticipating the return of Christ. People’s lives reflected the hope of seeing Jesus Christ – the desire to see Him face to face. I believe the church today has fallen away from this anticipation and has instead been caught up with materialism and the cares of this world.

When you live in anticipation of the return of Christ your life will show it! Your behaviors and attitudes will reflect the righteousness of God. As Christians, if we REALLY believe that Jesus is coming back we will desire to live pure, upright, godly, and self-controlled lifestyles, with the anticipation of seeing our Lord!

Jesus said, “Now learn this parable from the fig tree: When its branch has already become tender and puts forth leaves, you know that summer is near. So you also, when you see all these things, know that it is near – at the doors!� (Matthew 24:32-33)

The fig tree represents the nation of Israel. In the above parable, Jesus is referring to the restoration of the nation of Israel (Ezekiel 37). This happened in 1948 by a miracle of God! The generation that witnesses the regathering of the Jewish people into the nation of Israel will know that the return of Christ is imminent!

Jesus said that the generation that sees Israel blossoming – once again gathered together as a people and nation – will see His return! No, we don’t know the day and time, but we do know that the Lord’s return is at hand. How do we know this will happen? Because Jesus said, “Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will by no means pass away.�

I’m amazed at how we can trust the words of men but so often doubt the words of God! If Jesus said that He is going to return – and He will return! If Jesus said “these are the signs of the times� so we need to be looking up for our redemption is nigh! Don’t allow Satan to feed your mind with doubt. Believe in the Word of God....trust Jesus Christ and take Him at His Word.

As long as you are alive, you have a responsibility to believe and adhere to God’s Word. Regardless of outer circumstances and life’s trials, God’s Word is truth and can ALWAYS be trusted. As Christians, when we truly believe what God says, we understand that our lives need to reflect His truth. God’s Word teaches us how to live – it’s unchanging, and does not pass away. What He said then holds true for today.

Are you looking forward to the return of the Lord? Does your life reflect this anticipation?

Jesus, in the Book of Revelation (Rev 22:20) said, “Surely, I am coming quickly...� Would His sudden appearance today catch you unaware?

In Christ,

David Rosales

Monday, October 02, 2006