Waiting and Longing

I’ve led a Wednesday Night Bible Study on Hebrews since January 8th. It’s been difficult for me. Each week has included traversing difficult passages, wrestling with various interpretations, and praying for a few more minutes of preparation. Yet, each week has provided blessings. Last week, we made it to the end of Hebrews 9. The final verse of that chapter has continued to echo in my heart and mind:

“So Christ was sacrificed once to take away the sins of many; and he will appear a second time, not to bear sin, but to bring salvation to those who are waiting for him.” – Hebrews 9:28

 “Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing.” – 2 Timothy 4:8 

“All who have longed for his appearing.”  Do you long for Jesus? Do you long for his appearing? It makes sense for the aged and faithful Apostle Paul to receive a crown of righteousness. After all, he preached the gospel to the known world despite great sacrifice and persecution. Yet, a crown is also in store for those of us who long for the second coming of the Lord.

Do you pray Revelation 22:20, “Come, Lord Jesus!”?

Do you pray 1 Corinthians 16:22, “Our Lord, come!”? 

Does your heart swell in anticipation of a New Heaven and Earth?

Then I saw “a new heaven and a new earth,” for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and there was no longer any sea.  I saw the Holy City, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride beautifully dressed for her husband. And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Look! God’s dwelling place is now among the people, and he will dwell with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God. ‘He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death’ or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.”

He who was seated on the throne said, “I am making everything new!” Then he said, “Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true.” – Revelation 21:1-5

As we wait for the second coming and long for the return of Jesus, we are left with at least two tasks:

One: Rest in the gospel.

Rest in the truth that the completed and sufficient work of Jesus provides you abundant life now and eternal life to come. Allow this truth to provide rest for your soul, peace which transcends all understanding, and overwhelming joy.