August 9

OUR ABSENT but RETURNING LORD: “looking for the blessed hope and glorious appearing of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ” (Titus 2:13). “Blessed” here could be translated “happy,” and—knowing what we know about the promised return of our Champion—we ought to be a happy people! In fact, our hope is linked with joy, for we are to be “rejoicing in hope, patient in tribulation, continuing steadfastly in prayer” (Rom 12:12). And this hope, in turn, is linked with peace in a world of turmoil: “Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing” (15:13). For this reason we seek to perform His request to remember Him often “till He comes” (1 Cor 11:26). We also seek to obey His instruction, “Do business till I come” (Lk 19:13). And we take heed to His exhortation to “hold fast what you have till I come” (Rev 2:25). Thus the promised return of Christ should motivate us to loving worship, work fellowship, and wise stewardship. “Come, Lord Jesus!”

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